Apple iPhone 'Batterygate' Throttling Consumer Class Action Settlement
Case Overview
Apple Inc. faced a massive consumer fraud class action after the company admitted in December 2017 that it had been deliberately slowing down the performance of older iPhone models—including the iPhone 6, 6S, 7, and SE—through iOS software updates, without informing customers. Apple claimed the throttling was necessary to prevent unexpected shutdowns caused by aging lithium-ion batteries, but plaintiffs alleged the company concealed this practice to conceal battery defects, shorten the perceived useful life of older devices, and drive consumers toward purchasing newer, more expensive iPhone models. The case consolidated over 60 lawsuits filed across the country in a multidistrict litigation proceeding in San Jose, California.
In March 2020, Apple agreed to a settlement of up to $500 million, with individual iPhone owners eligible to receive approximately $25 per device (subject to the total claims filed). The settlement covered U.S. owners of iPhone 6, 6 Plus, 6S, 6S Plus, 7, 7 Plus, and SE models running iOS 10.2.1 or later, or iPhone 7/7 Plus running iOS 11.2 or later, who experienced performance slowdowns. The claims deadline passed in October 2020. The 'Batterygate' scandal drew global regulatory scrutiny—Apple was fined €25 million in France and €10 million in Italy for the same conduct—and prompted Apple to introduce a battery health transparency feature and a discounted battery replacement program in subsequent iOS updates.
Who May Qualify
U.S. residents who owned an iPhone 6, 6 Plus, 6S, 6S Plus, SE (1st gen), 7, or 7 Plus running iOS 10.2.1 or later (or iOS 11.2 or later for iPhone 7/7 Plus) before December 21, 2017. The claims deadline has passed; this case is now closed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Apple slow down my iPhone on purpose?
Yes. Apple confirmed in 2017 that it intentionally throttled processor speeds on older iPhone models through iOS updates to prevent unexpected shutdowns linked to degraded batteries. The company argued this protected device functionality, but plaintiffs alleged it was done without disclosure to push consumers toward new iPhones.
How much did Apple pay in the iPhone throttling settlement?
Apple agreed to pay up to $500 million. Eligible claimants received approximately $25 per iPhone. The exact per-device payout varied based on the total number of claims submitted.
Can I still file a claim for the Apple iPhone throttling lawsuit?
No. The claims deadline was October 6, 2020, and has passed. If you did not submit a claim before that date, you are no longer eligible to receive a payment from this settlement.