UK consumers could receive around £77 each as part of a multibillion-pound legal claim against Apple over its iCloud practices. Which? estimates that around 40 million UK iPhone and iPad users could be eligible for a share of the compensation if the claim succeeds.
Which? has been granted a 'Collective Proceedings Order' (CPO) by the court, allowing it to proceed with the claim on behalf of UK consumers. The consumer champions believe 'Apple has breached UK competition law by failing to provide a choice of cloud storage providers, and steering customers towards its iCloud service by not clearly informing them of alternatives and how those could be used on an iOS device'.
Apple's response and next steps
An Apple spokesperson told the Mirror: “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.”
Which? also noted that 'Apple has said it rejects any suggestion that its iCloud practices are anticompetitive and will vigorously defend the legal claim.' The next stage of the process will involve Apple filing its defence.
Who is eligible and what to do
Anyone who used iCloud services between November 8, 2018, and June 8, 2026, and was living in the UK on June 8, 2026, will be automatically included as a class member unless they opt out. Those who first obtained iCloud services after June 8, 2026, will not be included.
If you were not living in the UK on June 8, 2026, but used iCloud during the qualifying period, you can opt in to the claim. Consumers must notify Which? by October 8, 2026, if they wish to opt out or opt in. This can be done via the options listed on the claim website cloudclaim.co.uk.
Potential payout and purpose
Which? has estimated that Apple could owe UK consumers around £77 per person. The consumer champions are 'urging Apple to do the right thing and settle this claim without the need for litigation by offering consumers their money back and opening up iOS to allow users a real choice of cloud provider.'
Which? concluded: "This action is vital to obtain redress for consumers and to send a clear message to powerful companies like Apple: Which? is prepared to take action if they engage in harmful practices."
