Apple to Pay $20 Million: In a significant development, Apple has agreed to a $20 million settlement to resolve a class-action lawsuit over battery swelling issues in early Apple Watch models. If you owned an Apple Watch Series 0, 1, 2, or 3 and experienced battery swelling, you may be eligible for a payout. Here’s everything you need to know about the settlement, how to claim your share, and what this means for Apple Watch owners.
Key Details of the Settlement
- Lawsuit: The case, Smith et al. v. Apple Inc, was filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California.
- Settlement Amount: Apple will pay $20 million to settle the claims.
- Eligible Models: Apple Watch Series 0, 1, 2, and 3.
- Eligibility Criteria: You must have reported battery swelling issues to Apple between April 24, 2015, and February 6, 2024.
- Payout Estimate: Each eligible claimant could receive between 20and20and50 per affected watch.
How to Claim Your Payout
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you owned an eligible Apple Watch model and reported battery swelling issues within the specified timeframe.
- Submit a Claim: Visit the settlement claim website and confirm or update your payment information by April 10, 2024.
- Receive Payment: If approved, you will receive your payout via the payment method you provided.
What Apple Says
While agreeing to the settlement, Apple has denied all allegations of wrongdoing and maintains that its smartwatches did not have battery swelling issues. The company stated that it chose to settle to avoid further litigation costs.
Important Deadlines
- Claim Submission: April 10, 2024.
- Opt-Out or Objection: If you do not wish to be part of the settlement, you must exclude yourself or object by February 24, 2025.
Why This Settlement Matters
- Consumer Rights: The settlement highlights the importance of holding companies accountable for product defects.
- Financial Compensation: Affected Apple Watch owners can receive compensation for their inconvenience.
- Precedent: This case could set a precedent for future lawsuits involving consumer electronics.
Stay Updated
For more information about the settlement, visit the official settlement website. If you believe you’re eligible, make sure to submit your claim before the deadline.
