Millions of UK Apple users who have used iCloud since 2018 could receive up to £77 each after a £3bn class action lawsuit was given the green light by the Competition Appeal Tribunal on 17 June. Consumer champion Which? secured permission to proceed with the claim, which alleges Apple overcharged customers for iCloud storage and breached UK competition law.
What the lawsuit alleges
Which? claims Apple "trapped" users into using and paying for iCloud by giving it preferential treatment on iOS devices, stifling competition and overcharging millions. The consumer group argues that Apple made it difficult for users to store data with third-party providers, forcing them to pay for iCloud once the free 5GB limit was exceeded. This, Which? says, violates UK competition law.
Anabel Hoult, Which? chief executive, 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."
Who is eligible
The legal action covers all UK Apple customers who have used iCloud services since 8 November 2018. Anyone who does not wish to be included must opt out. Those living overseas but who resided in the UK and used iCloud before relocating can also opt in. If the case succeeds, nearly 39.7 million people could receive compensation, with individual payouts of up to £77.
Apple's response
Apple has said it will appeal the decision. An Apple spokesperson previously called the claims by Which? "unfounded."
