Apple is set to disburse approximately $65 to each claimant who participated in a class-action lawsuit filed in 2020, as a judge has granted clearance for the $500 million settlement. The lawsuit originated after Apple publicly acknowledged intentionally slowing down the performance of certain iPhone models in 2017.
Eligibility Criteria for Claimants and Settlement Amount
The iPhone models covered by the settlement include the iPhone 6, 6 Plus, 6s, 6s Plus, and SE, all running iOS 10.2.1 or later up until December 21, 2017. Additionally, the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus running iOS 11.2 or later until the same date qualify. The settlement has allocated between $310 million and $500 million for over 3 million claimants. While the estimated payment is around $65, the final amount may vary. However, only individuals who joined the lawsuit before the October 6, 2020 deadline will be eligible for compensation.
Apple 2018 Accusation and Resolution
Apple faced accusations in 2018 of intentionally slowing down the performance of these iPhone models due to user complaints of unexpected shutdowns occurring between 2015 and 2016. These spontaneous shutdowns would take place even if the devices had over 30% battery remaining. The issue stemmed from a discrepancy between hardware capabilities and the increasing demands of iOS updates.
Implementation of Performance-Throttling Fix
In response to these concerns, Apple released a software update aimed at resolving the shutdown problem. However, the update introduced a performance-throttling mechanism for affected iPhones to prevent unforeseen shutdowns in cold temperatures, low battery conditions, or as devices aged. This measure was intended to provide a smoother user experience by avoiding sudden shutdowns.
Apple Lawsuit Origins and Resolution
The lawsuit against Apple ensued in the wake of the company’s admission in 2017 that it intentionally reduced the performance of certain older iPhone models to address shutdown issues. The controversy surrounding this disclosure led to legal action. Now, with the recent approval of the settlement, Apple is poised to compensate eligible claimants, concluding a chapter in the company’s history marked by controversy and legal proceedings.
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