Apple has reached a $20 million settlement to resolve a class-action lawsuit alleging that certain Apple Watch models were prone to battery swelling, which could cause screen detachment or other malfunctions. The agreement, filed in a California federal court, covers U.S. customers who owned affected Apple Watch Series 4, 5, 6, or SE (1st Gen) devices purchased between September 2018 and December 2021.
Background of the Lawsuit
The lawsuit, first filed in 2022, claimed that some Apple Watch batteries expanded over time, pushing against the display and causing screens to detach or crack. Plaintiffs argued that Apple knew about the issue but failed to disclose it or offer adequate remedies beyond limited warranty repairs.
Apple denied any wrongdoing but agreed to the settlement to avoid prolonged litigation. The company has since updated its battery design in newer Apple Watch models, including the Series 9 and Ultra 2, to mitigate similar issues.
Settlement Details
Eligible customers can file claims for compensation if they experienced battery swelling and either paid for out-of-warranty repairs or received a replacement device. Payouts will vary based on the number of valid claims, with individual reimbursements estimated between 200.
Apple’s Response
In a statement, Apple reiterated its commitment to product quality and customer satisfaction, noting that the settlement “allows us to focus on delivering the best possible experience for Apple Watch users.” The company also highlighted its free battery health monitoring tools and extended service programs for other past issues.
