Years after the iPhone 7 launched in 2016, a class action lawsuit against Apple regarding audio issues has finally reached a settlement. This $35 million settlement offers a chance for iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus owners to claim compensation, even if they were unaware of the lawsuit. Initially set for June 3, 2024, the deadline for claiming the settlement was extended to July 3, 2024, by the United States District Court for the Northern District of California.
The lawsuit stemmed from audio problems experienced by iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus users, attributed to a faulty “audio IC” chip. This issue, often referred to as “loop disease” or the “Audio IC Defect,” manifested in symptoms like a grayed-out speaker button during calls, disabling the speakerphone functionality. It also impacted other essential audio functions, preventing users from using Siri voice commands, causing degraded microphone audio quality, and rendering the Voice Memos app unusable. Many users faced the inconvenience of paying for repairs or replacements out of pocket.
The settlement class includes individuals residing in the United States who owned or possessed an Apple iPhone 7 or 7 Plus between September 16, 2016, and January 3, 2023. To be eligible, individuals must have reported to Apple issues related to sound, speaker, microphone, receiver, unexpected restarts, shutdowns, or unresponsive devices. Those who paid for repairs or replacements for these issues directly to Apple are also included in the settlement class.
The settlement requires documentation or reporting of the issue to Apple. While Apple denies responsibility, the settlement offers payouts ranging from $50 to $349 for those who paid for repairs or replacements. Users who didn’t pay for repairs can receive up to $125. Although not a life-changing sum, it surpasses many class-action payouts where recipients are lucky to receive $25 years after the case.
The settlement class excludes Apple, its subsidiaries, directors, officers, employees, legal representatives, successors, and assigns. Judicial officers assigned to the case and their immediate families are also excluded. If you believe you’re eligible for the settlement, you should have received a postcard in the mail. If you’re unsure, call the toll-free number 1-833-633-0343 or contact the Class Action Administrator at 1650 Arch Street, Suite 2210, Philadelphia, PA 19103. A Final Approval Hearing will be held on July 18, 2024, to finalize payment amounts and recipients.
