Apple will pay up to $14.4 million (CAD) to eligible members of a class-action lawsuit in Canada alleging that the company purposefully reduced the performance of some older iPhones.
According to CBC, each claimant can expect to receive between $17.50 and $150, depending on how many claims are submitted (via MacRumors).
Apple was slowing down some older iPhone models
In late 2017, it was revealed that Apple was slowing down some older iPhone models, giving the impression that the company was doing so to force customers to upgrade to a new model. Apple responded by explaining that because older batteries are less capable of delivering peak energy loads, it has implemented a power management feature to prevent unexpected shutdowns.
Customers were unhappy with the lack of transparency, and numerous lawsuits were filed. The company apologized for not being more forthcoming and temporarily reduced the cost of battery replacements from $79 to $29 each.
Apple has denied any wrongdoing but has decided to settle to avoid litigation costs.
Who is eligible for the compensation?
All Canadian residents, with the exception of Quebec, who purchased an iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, or iPhone SE with iOS 10.2.1 or later installed or downloaded, or an iPhone 7 or iPhone 7 Plus with iOS 11.2 or later installed or downloaded before December 21, 2017, appear to be eligible for the settlement. To receive payment, you will need to provide your iPhone’s serial number.
To receive money, class members must fill out and submit a claim form, which will be made available in the coming days.
In a previous settlement of a similar lawsuit, the company agreed to pay up to $500 million to affected US consumers. The company began sending payments for the lawsuit earlier this year, with some affected customers receiving $92.17.
