7 hrs ago
India Escalates Apple Probe Over iOS 18 Repair Costs
India’s consumer regulator is investigating Apple’s iOS 18 update.
Some iPhone users said the update caused colored lines on their screens and microphone problems.
The regulator says some people then had to pay a lot of money for repairs.
It is examining whether Apple’s software warranty rules treated customers unfairly.
Apple says it did not find widespread or safety problems with iOS 18 in India.
Apple also says customers were told that its software comes without a warranty.
The company says similar rules are used by other electronics companies.
Investigators can request documents and hold hearings before making a report.
Apple could face fines, refunds or required changes if violations are found.
India’s Central Consumer Protection Authority has ordered a detailed investigation into complaints involving Apple’s iOS 18 update.
Consumers reported green, pink or white screen lines, microphone malfunctions and other problems after upgrading.
The regulator alleges users were charged exorbitant repair and display-replacement costs for issues linked to the software update.
Apple says iOS 18 had no systemic or safety issues in India and that its no-warranty software terms follow industry standards.
A finding against Apple could result in fines, refunds or changes to its warranty and business practices.
- Who
- India’s Central Consumer Protection Authority is investigating Apple after complaints from iPhone users.
- What
- The regulator escalated an investigation into iOS 18, Apple’s software warranty terms and related repair charges.
- Where
- India.
- When
- The CCPA ordered a detailed investigation on July 29; Apple submitted a response dated August 20.
- Why
- The investigation concerns allegations that iOS 18 caused device problems while Apple’s software terms left consumers responsible for repair costs.
Consumer Regulator’s Allegations
Apple’s Response
Cause of device problems
Consumer Regulator’s Allegations
The CCPA says iOS 18 caused screen, microphone and other malfunctions affecting consumers as a class.
Apple’s Response
Apple says it found no systemic or safety issues with iOS 18 in India and that the software underwent stringent testing.
Responsibility for repair costs
Consumer Regulator’s Allegations
The regulator says charging consumers for repairs arising from the software upgrade violates fair-trade principles.
Apple’s Response
Apple argues that treating every software issue as a breach of an absolute warranty would make software providers insurers against technological risk.
Software warranty terms
Consumer Regulator’s Allegations
The CCPA is examining whether Apple’s no-warranty software terms and related practices violate consumer rights.
Apple’s Response
Apple says consumers were informed of the terms before installation and that similar provisions are used by electronics companies including Sony and Samsung.
Key facts
- Regulator
- India’s Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA)
- Software involved
- Apple’s iOS 18 update, released in late 2024
- Reported problems
- Green, pink or white screen lines, microphone malfunctions and other functionality issues
- Reported complaints
- Apple says the CCPA case was based on 75 complaints
- Estimated repair cost
- Servicing an iPhone 15 screen was estimated at 27,900 rupees, or $291
- Apple’s position
- Apple says iOS 18 underwent stringent testing and had no systemic or safety issues in India
- Potential consequences
- Fines, consumer refunds or changes to Apple’s business practices and warranty terms
- Indian market share
- Apple’s iPhone share was 9% last year, up from 4% in 2022, according to Counterpoint Research
Quotes
Apple
The technology company responding to India’s consumer regulator
“A requirement that every issue ... be treated as a breach of an absolute warranty would effectively convert any software provider into an insurer against all technological risk”
deccanchronicle.com
telegraphindia.com
Central Consumer Protection Authority
India’s consumer protection regulator
“Charging consumers for issues arising from the company's own negligence violates the principle of fair trade”
deccanchronicle.com
telegraphindia.com
Kirti Mahapatra
New Delhi-based lawyer specializing in consumer laws
“It can also ask for changes to such terms, but that would be unprecedented.”
deccanchronicle.com
telegraphindia.com
Sources
Related news
CCPA Launches Detailed Probe Into iOS 18 iPhone Complaints
India Consumer Watchdog Probes Alleged Oppo Reno 5 Defects
Google Ordered ₹1.1 Lakh Over Faulty Foldable Phone
Sony Bravia Warranty Dispute Escalates Into ₹5 Crore Legal Fight
Apple to change app data consent rules, German regulator says
Apple Faces £2 Billion UK Lawsuit Over App Tracking Rules
UP Man Alleges Abduction Over Unpaid Mobile Phone Instalments
Samsung Galaxy S27 Ultra Leaks Reveal Possible Design Details
Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 launch date tipped for October 7
Top Flagship Smartphones Under Rs 1.5 Lakh This Festive Season
