Good news for iPhone users! Apple has begun sending out settlement payments to individuals who submitted a claim in the ‘Batterygate’ case. Back in 2020, Apple agreed to pay up to $500 million to settle a class action lawsuit that accused the company of secretly slowing down certain iPhone models. The payouts, which started this week, are a long-awaited result of the lawsuit and bring closure to a controversy that began in December 2017. The payments come as a result of Apple’s power management system, which was introduced to prevent unexpected device shutdowns. Despite denying any wrongdoing, Apple agreed to the settlement to avoid costly litigation. So if you’ve been waiting for your payout, keep an eye on your mailbox!
Apple Sends Settlement Payments to iPhone Users in ‘Batterygate’ Case
Background
In 2020, Apple agreed to pay up to $500 million to settle a class action lawsuit in the U.S. The lawsuit accused the company of secretly throttling some iPhone models. The lawsuit was filed in December 2017, shortly after Apple revealed that it throttled the maximum performance of certain iPhone models with chemically aged batteries. Apple introduced this power management system in iOS 10.2.1. However, it failed to mention the change in the update’s release notes. Apple apologized for its lack of transparency and temporarily lowered the price of iPhone battery replacements to $29 in 2018. Despite apologizing, Apple denied all allegations and admitted to no legal wrongdoing.
Start of Settlement Payments
Payouts for the ‘batterygate’ settlement have finally started going out to individuals who submitted claims. The website for the settlement indicated that payments would likely begin in January, and they have indeed started to be distributed. Apple users such as Ken Strand and Michael Burkhardt have reported receiving settlement payments of $92.17 per claim from Apple.
Amount of Payments
The settlement payments are set at a fixed amount of $92.17 per claim. This means that each eligible individual who submitted a claim will receive this set amount as part of the settlement. The payment amount is the same for all claimants and is not dependent on any specific circumstances or factors.
Lawsuit and Apple’s Response
The lawsuit against Apple was sparked by the revelation that the company was throttling the performance of certain iPhone models with aged batteries. This was done to prevent unexpected device shutdowns. However, Apple faced backlash as it failed to disclose this change and the impact it would have on device performance. Customers accused Apple of misleading them and sought legal action. Apple initially denied the allegations but agreed to the settlement to avoid prolonged and costly litigation.
Apple’s Apology and Battery Replacements
As a response to the controversy, Apple issued an apology for its lack of transparency in communicating the power management change. The apology also came with a temporary reduction in the price of iPhone battery replacements, which were made available for $29. This move was aimed at appeasing affected customers and addressing their concerns about device performance.
Apple’s Denial and Settlement Decision
While Apple expressed regret over its communication methods, it steadfastly denied any legal wrongdoing related to the ‘batterygate’ issue. The company maintained that the power management system was implemented to improve the overall user experience by preventing unexpected shutdowns. Apple’s decision to settle the lawsuit was primarily driven by a desire to avoid the burden and costs associated with lengthy litigation.
Eligibility for Settlement
To be eligible for the settlement, individuals had to be U.S. residents who owned an affected iPhone model. The eligible models included iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, and iPhone SE running iOS 10.2.1 or later. Additionally, iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus running iOS 11.2 or later were also included. Eligibility was determined based on the device models and the software versions they were running before December 21, 2017.
Claim Deadline
The deadline to submit a claim for settlement payment was in October 2020. Individuals who met the eligibility criteria were required to submit their claims by this deadline to receive their settlement payments. After the October 2020 deadline, no further claims were accepted, and individuals who did not submit a claim within the specified timeframe became ineligible for the settlement.
Continued Performance Management System
Despite the settlement, Apple continues to employ a performance management system on the iPhone 6 and newer models. This system dynamically manages device performance to prevent unexpected shutdowns and ensure a smoother user experience. Apple introduced this system to address battery-related issues and maintain the optimal performance of older devices.
User Reactions and Testimonials
Users who have received settlement payments have expressed their satisfaction and relief. Michael Burkhardt, one of the recipients, shared his positive experience on Twitter, stating how happy he was to finally receive the payment after 3.5 years of waiting. Such reactions highlight the impact of the ‘batterygate’ issue on affected iPhone users and the significance of the settlement payments in addressing their grievances.
In conclusion, Apple’s decision to send settlement payments to iPhone users in the ‘batterygate’ case marks the resolution of a controversial issue that spanned several years. The payments, set at $92.17 per claim, provide some compensation to affected individuals. While the settlement does not explicitly acknowledge legal wrongdoing on Apple’s part, it demonstrates the company’s willingness to address user concerns and avoid lengthy litigation. Moving forward, Apple continues to implement a performance management system to optimize device performance and prevent unexpected shutdowns. The user testimonials and positive reactions to the settlement payments further emphasize the significance of this resolution for affected iPhone users.
