Apple iPhone 7 and 7 Plus Owners Can Claim Settlement Money for Audio Defect

Some iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus owners can claim a piece of a $35 million class action settlement against Apple. The settlement comes after a 2019 lawsuit alleged Apple knew of an "Audio IC Defect" that caused audio issues, but failed to inform consumers and refused repairs without charge.

Eligibility and Deadlines:

• Owners of iPhone 7/7 Plus between Sept 16, 2016 - Jan 3, 2023 who complained to Apple about the issue OR paid for repairs are eligible.
• Settlement Website
• New deadline to submit a claim: July 3, 2023 (previously June 3)
• Final approval hearing: July 18, 2:00 p.m. PDT, for court approval of the settlement

Payouts:

• Consumers who paid for repairs: up to $349
• Consumers who reported the issue but didn't pay for repairs: up to $125
• Minimum payout for eligible claims: $50

Apple's Response:

Apple denies all allegations, stating it is "not an admission of guilt or any wrongdoing." The company asserts numerous defenses and claims it did nothing wrong.

Original Lawsuit Allegations:

Per the class complaint, Apple's "concealment of a material defect" led to audio issues, rendering the smartphones' audio features "unresponsive" and failing their "essential purpose."

"Apple has long been aware of the Audio IC Defect...yet...routinely refuses to repair the iPhones without charge," the complaint states.