Millions of iPhone users in the UK could be entitled to compensation of up to £77 each after a class action lawsuit against Apple was given the green light to proceed. The consumer group Which? has successfully obtained permission from the Competition Appeal Tribunal to move forward with an opt-out collective claim, alleging that Apple breached UK competition law by giving its iCloud storage preferential treatment.
Which? Alleges Anti-Competitive Practices
Which? argues that Apple effectively trapped users into using iCloud by offering limited free storage and then overcharging for additional space. iCloud subscriptions range from 99p per month for 50GB to £54.99 per month for 12TB. The group claims that Apple's practices have harmed consumers by limiting their choices and inflating prices.
According to Which?, up to 39.7 million iCloud users could potentially receive a payout of up to £77 per person if the claim is successful. The case is expected to be heard in October 2028, and any compensation would be distributed to eligible users automatically.
Eligibility and Opt-Out Details
Individuals who used iCloud services at any time between November 8, 2018, and June 8, 2026, and were living in the UK on June 8, 2026, will be automatically included in the claim unless they choose to opt out. The deadline for opting out is October 8, 2026, via the claim website cloudclaim.co.uk. Consumers who were not living in the UK but used iCloud during that period can opt in to the claim. Anyone who first started using iCloud after June 8, 2026, will not be included.
Apple Responds and Plans to Appeal
An Apple spokesperson 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. We strongly disagree with this decision and plan to appeal.”
Anabel Hoult, Which? Chief Executive, stated: “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.”
Background and Next Steps
Which? filed its claim against Apple at the Competition Appeal Tribunal in November 2024. The case is not expected to be heard until October 2028, and Apple has indicated it will appeal the tribunal's decision. The outcome could set a precedent for how tech companies are held accountable for anti-competitive behavior in the UK.
