Some iPhone Users Can Get Up To $150, As Apple Settles Canadian ‘Batterygate’ Scandal At $14.4 Million
In response to the controversy surrounding its iPhone software and batteries, Apple has agreed to a proposed class-action settlement, pledging to pay Canadians up to $14.4 million. Carmi Levy, a technology expert from London, Ont., encourages users to explore their old, unused phones, stating, “Now is the time to go digging through drawers looking for that old phone you no longer use.”
Referred to as “batterygate,” the allegations against Apple involved accusations of providing software that deliberately slowed down iPhone 6 and iPhone 7 models, pushing users to upgrade to newer, pricier iPhones. As part of the Canadian iPhone Power Management Class Action, Apple is set to pay Canadians a sum ranging from $11.1 million to a maximum of $14.4 million, with affected consumers eligible for up to $150 per phone.
The payout applies to anyone who owned an iPhone 6 or iPhone 7 and downloaded a new IOS operating system version before Dec. 21, 2016. Apple faced legal action after acknowledging that software updates could impede the performance speeds of older iPhones. Despite customer complaints, Apple denies intentionally slowing down devices to drive new phone purchases.
Carmi Levy notes that the proposed Canadian settlement mirrors a similar U.S. lawsuit where Apple paid consumers half a billion dollars. He emphasizes the global scale of the issue, indicating that Apple will need to settle numerous cases worldwide.
The settlement awaits approval from the British Columbia Supreme Court on Jan. 29. If approved, consumers will need to submit a claim form, including their iPhone’s serial number—an essential requirement that some may find challenging if they no longer possess the device. Levy advises individuals to check old contracts or phone bills for the serial number.
While CTV News sought Apple Canada’s response to the proposed settlement, no response has been received at the time of reporting. Information on filing a claim will be available on the class action website upon approval by the B.C. court.
Parvasi Media Group