Like all tech giants, Apple is no stranger to fines. Recently, it was the absence of a charger in the box that led to a conviction. But other times, old users catch up with the firm. Remember: in 2017, a scandal damaged the image of Apple, which was then accused of deliberately decreasing the performance of its iPhones.
The affected models are iPhone 6, 6 Plus, 6S, 6S Plus, SE, 7, 7 Plus, 8, 8 Plus and iPhone X. To do this, the manufacturer has introduced a performance management tool in its firmware updates to slow down smartphones. If this process is already questionable in itself, it is all the more so since Apple did not, at the time, warn users of its implementation.
Also, while the firm claimed that its updates improved the performance of its iPhones, it actually turned out that the exact opposite was happening. After the discoveries of users and journalists, the controversy erupts, forcing Apple to apologize. The brand confirms the statements, but claims to have acted in this way only for the good of consumers. Indeed, this process would have aimed to extend the life of the batteries as well as their autonomy.
A claim for $900 million against Apple has been filed, alleging performance throttling of iPhone
Today, Justin Gutmann, leader of a consumer advocacy group dug up the case to take it to court. In a complaint filed recently, it demands 750 million pounds, or 870 million euros, in compensation for users affected by the restraint. Justin Gutmann claims that Apple deliberately concealed the true functioning of the tool so as not to alert consumers.
“We have never, and will never do anything to degrade the user experience; in order to push customers to make updates,” responded Apple. “Our goal has always been to create products that our customers love; and making iPhones last as long as possible is an important part of that. Last year, the firm again faced accusations of throttling over the iPhone 11 and 12.