Apple has agreed to settle a class action lawsuit for $20 million, which may provide payments to owners of early Apple Watch models, including the first generation, Series 1, Series 2, and Series 3, who experienced battery swelling issues. The lawsuit claimed that these swelling batteries posed a risk of damaging the devices. Despite denying any wrongdoing, Apple chose to settle the case to avoid further litigation, according to a statement made to TechCrunch. The payments for eligible claimants are expected to range from $20 to $50 per affected device, depending on the number of claimants.
To qualify for payment, claimants must have reported the battery issue to Apple in the U.S. between April 24, 2015, and February 6, 2024. Those who meet this requirement do not need to submit a claim form. Instead, they only need to provide their payment information through the settlement website by the deadline of April 10, 2024. Notices confirming eligibility will be sent out via email and postal mail to those who qualify.
Apple’s settlement comes without any admission of fault, and the company remains firm in its position that the claims in the lawsuit are not valid. However, settling the case allows Apple to avoid prolonged legal battles. The amount of payment each claimant will receive will depend on the total number of eligible devices involved in the settlement.
For more detailed information on eligibility and deadlines, individuals can visit the class action settlement website. The process is designed to be straightforward for eligible Apple Watch owners to claim their compensation, and no claim forms are required beyond submitting payment details.