A settlement agreement between Apple and members of a class-action lawsuit in British Columbia, approved by a B.C. Supreme Court judge, has paved the way for eligible claimants to receive compensation totaling up to $14.4 million. The lawsuit alleged that Apple intentionally released software updates that slowed down older iPhone models. Apple, while refuting these claims, consented to the settlement, offering a sum ranging from $11.1 million to $14.4 million, emphasizing that the agreement does not signify an admission of wrongdoing on their part.
Individuals who qualify for the settlement, based on the affected iPhone models and the installation of specific iOS versions, stand to receive compensation ranging from $17.50 to $150, contingent on the number of applicants. Applicants must furnish the serial number of the affected device to be considered for compensation.
This settlement encompasses residents of all Canadian provinces except Quebec, with analogous lawsuits filed in Ontario, Saskatchewan, and Alberta. Michael Peerless, legal counsel for the class, expressed satisfaction with the court’s determination, deeming the settlement as equitable and in the best interest of the affected class. He highlighted Apple’s cooperation in the process, noting that while the tech giant hasn’t conceded wrongdoing, their participation is customary in such class-action proceedings.
Those eligible for compensation include purchasers of iPhone 6, 6 Plus, 6s, 6s Plus, SE, 7, or 7 Plus models running iOS 10.2.1 or later (for iPhone 6, 6 Plus, 6s, 6s Plus, or SE) and/or iOS 11.2 or later (for iPhone 7 or 7 Plus) before December 21, 2017, as specified on the class action’s website.
Individuals seeking reimbursement must submit an approved claim form within the specified timeframe, with the claims administrator expected to provide assistance in verifying eligibility. The opt-out deadline for the class action was January 10.
Peerless emphasized the importance of substantiating claims to prevent fraudulent submissions, noting the collaboration between Apple, the legal team, and the court in ensuring the integrity of the settlement process.
A parallel case in the United States resulted in a settlement between Apple and iPhone users affected by similar software-induced performance throttling, with compensation ranging from $310 million US to $500 million US.