If you owned an Apple Watch Series 0, 1, 2, or 3 and complained about a battery issue, you might be eligible for a small portion of a $20 million legal settlement.
Apple recently agreed to settle a class-action lawsuit that alleged the batteries in early Apple Watches could expand and stop working. To get the money, you’ll need to have reported battery-swelling issues to Apple between April 24, 2015, and Feb. 6, 2024, and you’ll also need to be based in the US. You’ll then need to submit a claim form via Apple’s web portal.
Unfortunately, the money involved may not be life-changing for most people. According to the lawsuit’s FAQ, the payout will likely range from $20 to $50 per device. You also need to complete your online form before April 10.
Apple denied “wrongdoing and liability” regarding the battery issues and said it “specifically denies each of Plaintiffs’ contentions and claims” and that it was just settling to “avoid further costs of litigation.” By agreeing to accept the payment, you’ll also need to forgo your rights to further litigation around the issue.
Earlier this month, Apple agreed to pay $95 million in another class-action lawsuit alleging its voice assistant Siri violated user privacy and engaged in the “unlawful and intentional recording of individuals’ confidential communications without their consent.” It also did not admit wrongdoing in that case.
Recommended by Our Editors
Apple is also fighting another class-action lawsuit related to the Apple Watch. This time, the suit accuses Apple of failing to disclose its use of “forever chemicals,” a type of substance that takes a very long time to break down, in several of its straps—the Sport Band, Ocean Band, and Nike Sport Band.
