Millions of UK Apple iCloud users could be set to pocket up to £77 each in compensation after consumer group Which? overcame a significant legal obstacle in its £3 billion fight against the American tech giant. The Competition Appeal Tribunal granted Which? a Collective Proceedings Order (CPO), allowing the claim to proceed on an opt-out basis.
Which? Accuses Apple of Anti-Competitive Practices
Which? contends that Apple abused its dominant market position by favouring iCloud and making it increasingly difficult for users to switch to competing cloud storage providers. The organisation claims these practices "trapped" consumers within Apple's ecosystem, stifled competition and allowed the company to levy higher subscription charges than would otherwise have been justified. Should the claim prove successful, those affected could receive payouts of up to £77 each, according to Which?.
39.7 Million Users Automatically Included
Under the terms of the action, anyone who used iCloud between 8 November 2018 and 8 June 2026 and was residing in the UK on 8 June 2026 will be automatically included, unless they choose to opt out. Those living abroad on that date but who used iCloud during the relevant period are able to opt in to the claim. Which? will represent as many as 39.7 million UK iCloud users in the case.
Which? CEO: 'No Company Can Get Away With Abusing Its Position'
Anabel Hoult, chief executive of Which?, said: "Which? wants to make clear that no company, no matter how powerful, can get away with abusing its position. The granting of the CPO means we're one step closer to getting consumers the redress we believe they are owed from Apple and this should send a strong message to any other companies using anti-competitive tactics." She urged everyone who thinks they may be affected to visit www.cloudclaim.co.uk for more information and to sign up for updates.
Legal Challenge Launched in November 2024
The legal challenge was initially launched in November 2024 and is seeking approximately £3 billion in compensation on behalf of consumers. Which? contends that Apple stifled competition by promoting iCloud on its iOS devices while erecting technical obstacles that made competing cloud services less appealing. The consumer champion also claims that Apple bundled iCloud services with its devices in a manner that made switching providers more difficult for users.
Apple Dismisses Claims as 'Unfounded'
Apple has firmly dismissed the accusations. In a previous statement, it said: "These claims are unfounded. We work hard to make iCloud a great experience, but no customer is required to use it and customers in the UK have plenty of alternatives to choose from." This represents one of the most substantial consumer legal actions ever launched in Britain and will progress through the Competition Appeal Tribunal unless the parties reach an agreement beforehand. Compensation is not guaranteed, with any potential payout hinging on Which? ultimately prevailing in its case against Apple.
