Cupertino, Wednesday, 29 January 2025.Apple is set to pay $20 million over claims its smartwatches have defective batteries that cause swelling and screen damage, affecting reliability and consumer trust.
Settlement Details and Affected Models
The settlement, which awaits final approval on April 10, 2025, covers multiple generations of Apple Watches including First Generation, Series 1, Series 2, and Series 3 models purchased between April 24, 2015, and February 6, 2024 [1]. Without admitting wrongdoing, Apple has agreed to compensate users who experienced battery swelling issues that reportedly damaged watch screens and other components [1]. Affected consumers can expect compensation ranging from $20 to $50 per device, with the final amount dependent on the net settlement fund [1].
Claims Process and Deadlines
Class members have until April 10, 2025, to file their claims, with a notable feature being that no proof of purchase is required for basic claims [1]. The settlement, being managed by Angeion Group, has set February 24, 2025, as the deadline for any exclusions or objections [1]. This case, formally known as Smith, et al. v. Apple Inc., Case No. 4:21-cv-09527-HSG, is being heard in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California [1].
Broader Quality Concerns
This settlement comes at a challenging time for Apple’s wearable division, as the company is simultaneously facing a separate class-action lawsuit filed on January 21, 2025, regarding PFAS chemicals in their watch bands [2]. While Apple maintains that their watch bands are safe for users, stating they conduct ‘rigorous testing and analysis of the materials’ [2], these consecutive legal challenges highlight growing scrutiny over product safety and reliability in the wearable technology sector [GPT].
Consumer Impact and Industry Implications
The settlement represents a significant acknowledgment of consumer concerns regarding device reliability [GPT]. The battery swelling issue particularly affects the durability and safety of these devices, which are increasingly being used for health monitoring and daily activities [GPT]. This case may set a precedent for how other manufacturers handle similar quality control issues in wearable technology [alert! ‘speculative industry impact’].
