Apple has settled a series of class action lawsuits over the iPhone throttling controversy, with affected owners set to receive payouts of $500 each. The settlement was granted preliminary approval in May 2020 and has now been given the green light to proceed after a judge rejected objections raised by two iPhone owners.
The lawsuits centered around Apple’s decision to introduce a software feature in iOS that would slow down the performance of certain iPhone models when faced with heavy workloads. This feature was meant to address issues related to aging batteries, such as unexpected shutdowns. The affected iPhone models include the iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, and iPhone SE.
Approximately 3 million people submitted claims to be part of the settlement, which consolidated multiple class action suits into one. The deadline for applications was October 6, 2020. Apple is expected to pay out between $310 and $500 million in total, depending on the number of valid claims. On average, each claimant is likely to receive around $65.
By denying the objections against the settlement, the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has paved the way for Apple to start distributing the compensation payments to affected customers. This marks the final stage in resolving the iPhone throttling controversy that has been ongoing for several years.
Apple’s decision to throttle iPhones without informing users sparked widespread criticism and ultimately led to a decline in consumer trust. The company has since introduced more transparent controls, allowing users to decide whether they want to enable the performance management feature in their devices.
While some iPhone owners might feel that the $500 payout is not sufficient considering the inconvenience caused, others are relieved that the issue has been resolved. The settlement serves as a reminder to tech companies that transparency and communication with customers are vital in maintaining trust and avoiding legal battles.
Apple’s reputation took a hit as a result of the iPhone throttling controversy, but the company has taken steps to rebuild trust. Amidst growing demands for accountability from consumers, it is crucial for Apple and other tech giants to prioritize ethical practices and clear communication to avoid further legal disputes.
As the settlement payments get underway, affected iPhone owners can soon expect to receive their $500 payouts. This resolution brings closure to a contentious chapter in Apple’s history, reminding the company of the importance of transparency and the trust of its customers.
