This weekend, Apple began sending out $92 payments to US customers affected by its 2018 iPhone throttling controversy, and now it looks like those in Canada could soon be receiving similar payouts.
Colloquially dubbed batterygate, Apple found itself in hot water with customers and governments worldwide when it was found deliberately slowing down iPhones with aging batteries following an early 2017 iOS 10.2.1 update. The company made the decision on its own, without proper transparency.
As a result, Apple faced class-action lawsuits from angry customers who purchased new iPhones when a more affordable battery replacement would have sufficed. It also received multi-million dollar fines from 34 US states and several foreign governments. However, Brazilian courts ruled that Apple did nothing wrong.
Now, Apple has reached a settlement in a Canadian class-action lawsuit, agreeing to a $14.4 million CAD payout (~$11 million USD) that could see Canadian iPhone owners receiving up to $150 CAD per affected device.
The settlement covers class-action lawsuits filed in four provinces: British Columbia, Ontario, Saskatchewan, and Alberta. The proposed settlement will be presented before British Columbia’s Supreme Court for approval at a hearing on January 29, 2024.
To participate in the class-action lawsuit in Canada, no immediate action is required. However, a Canadian iPhone Power Management Class Action webpage has been created for further updates. Those who do not wish to participate have until January 10, 2024, to opt out or file an objection.
Canadian iPhone owners who owned affected models before December 21, 2017, may be eligible. The eligible models are the iPhone 6, 6 Plus, 6s, 6s Plus, SE, 7, or 7 Plus with iOS 10.2.1 or later installed.
Apple has agreed to pay between $11,137,500 CAD and $14,427,500 CAD as part of the settlement. The minimum payout per eligible iPhone is $17.50 CAD, but this amount could reach $150 CAD depending on the number of claims filed. Apple is required to pay out at least $11,137,500 CAD, and any excess funds will be donated to a charitable organization.
Once the settlement is approved, the class-action website will provide details on how to file claims.
The batterygate controversy has stretched across international borders. With the settlement in Canada, it is clear that Apple’s actions are facing consequences, and affected iPhone owners have the opportunity to receive compensation.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. iPhone owners in Canada should consult with legal professionals for guidance on their specific situations.
