Published on November 2, 2023, 8:23 am
Image source: Fox News
TLDR: Apple is facing a $2 billion lawsuit in the UK for allegedly concealing issues with iPhone batteries that resulted in intentionally slowing down older models. The lawsuit claims that Apple engaged in deceptive practices by hiding the battery problems and rolling out software updates without user consent. Apple denies the allegations but their attempt to dismiss the case was rejected, allowing the lawsuit to proceed. With an estimated 24 million iPhone users covered by the claim, Apple could face a substantial payout if unsuccessful. The case highlights the growing number of consumer group lawsuits against Big Tech companies and raises questions about whether Apple misled iPhone users about battery problems.
Tech giant Apple is currently embroiled in a significant legal battle in the UK, as it faces a lawsuit seeking up to $2 billion in damages for allegedly concealing issues with iPhone batteries. The lawsuit, brought by consumer advocate Justin Gutmann on behalf of approximately 24 million iPhone users, accuses Apple of intentionally slowing down older iPhone models through software updates in order to hide defects and battery problems.
The crux of the lawsuit centers around a power management tool released by Apple in 2016. It was later revealed that this tool deliberately slowed down performance on older iPhones. While Apple claimed that this was done to prevent unexpected device shutdowns resulting from aging batteries, critics argue that the company intentionally throttled phones to incentivize users to upgrade to newer models.
Justin Gutmann argues that by concealing the battery issues and rolling out the performance-limiting update without user consent, Apple engaged in deceptive business practices and violated consumer rights. His lawsuit seeks compensation for UK iPhone owners based on the disparity between what consumers paid for their iPhones and what they would have paid had Apple been more transparent about the battery problems.
Apple vehemently denies these allegations, asserting that only a small number of iPhone 6 models were affected by the battery problems. However, their attempt to dismiss the case was rejected by the Competition Appeal Tribunal, allowing the lawsuit to proceed. While further clarification is needed regarding the specifics of the claim, this ruling represents a crucial step towards holding Apple accountable.
This case adds to a growing list of consumer group lawsuits against Big Tech companies both in the UK and globally. With an estimated 24 million iPhone users covered by this claim, Apple could face a substantial payout if unsuccessful, with damages potentially reaching £853 million (over $1 billion).
Justin Gutmann views this tribunal ruling as a significant breakthrough in the pursuit of consumer justice. On the other hand, Apple maintains its position that it would never intentionally reduce product lifespan. As the legal battle intensifies, all eyes will be on whether Apple can successfully defend itself against allegations of misleading iPhone users regarding battery problems.
Original article posted by Fox News
