Apple Launches Compensation Program for Battery Swelling in Apple Watches

In a recent development, Apple has agreed to a settlement focused on complaints of battery swelling from their earlier smartwatch models. This settlement, amounting to $20 million, resolves a class action lawsuit without admitting any liability or wrongdoing on Apple’s part. Despite the settlement, Apple maintains its stance that the allegations are unfounded.

This decision follows another settlement related to Siri inadvertently recording private conversations. Apple’s agreement to this new settlement seems to be a strategic move to avoid the costlier route of prolonged litigation. Individuals eligible for compensation need to have owned one of the early Apple Watch models and reported battery swelling issues to Apple between April 24, 2015, and February 6, 2024.

It is important to note that this settlement does not include the later models like the Apple Watch Series 10, Watch Ultra 2, or Watch SE 2nd Gen. Moreover, eligible users must agree to abstain from future legal action regarding battery issues and have options to either participate in or exclude themselves from this settlement process. The deadline to make objections or exclusions is February 24, 2025, and to confirm payment information is April 10, 2025. The expected compensation ranges between $20 and $50.

Those seeking further details can refer to the dedicated settlement site for guidance on eligibility and claims. This agreement underscores the importance of resolving consumer complaints while steering clear of legal admissions.