Apple’s controversial decision in 2017 to throttle the performance of iPhones with older batteries, a move that sparked widespread criticism and legal challenges, appears to be reaching its conclusion.
Recent reports indicate that users affected by this issue, widely known as ‘Batterygate,’ now receive financial settlements directly in their bank accounts.
According to MacRumors, individuals impacted by the performance throttling have started to see deposits of $92.17 in their bank accounts. This development follows the updated dedicated settlement website in December, stating that payments were expected to be issued this month. Initially, it was anticipated that approved claimants might receive around $65, but recent confirmations suggest a higher amount of $92.17, as reported by The Verge.
Background and Legal Settlement
The issue came to light in 2017 when a developer uncovered that iOS 10 updates intentionally slowed down older iPhone models, specifically the iPhone 6S and iPhone 7. Apple later admitted to the slowdown, clarifying it was a measure to prevent older phones from shutting down due to deteriorating battery health.
The revelation led to multiple class action lawsuits against Apple, accusing the tech giant of nudging customers to prematurely upgrade their phones instead of opting for battery replacements.
In 2020, Apple agreed to a settlement in these lawsuits. Following the removal of the last legal hurdle by a judge in August of the same year, the process to compensate affected customers was set in motion. The models included in this settlement are the iPhone 6, 6 Plus, 6S, 6S Plus, 7, 7 Plus, and the original iPhone SE. Those who filed an approved claim by the October 6th, 2020, deadline receive their due compensation, marking the end of a significant chapter in Apple’s history.
