# Apple Watch Class Action Lawsuit: Settlement and Key Concerns
In 2018, a class action lawsuit was launched against Apple, claiming defects in the initial versions of the Apple Watch that could result in display problems, such as cracking or separation from the casing. This lawsuit brought to light the worries that numerous users had faced with their devices, particularly related to swollen batteries and their effect on the watch’s display durability.
## The Swollen Batteries Concern
The swollen batteries concern first appeared in 2017, when owners of the original Apple Watch, commonly known as Series 0, reported that their devices’ batteries were inflating. This inflation caused the display to bow out from the casing, raising safety and dependability concerns about the product. In response, Apple provided a complimentary three-year extended warranty for the affected models.
The issue wasn’t exclusive to the original version; it also impacted a few Series 2 models, mainly the 42mm variants of the Sport, Nike+, Hermès, and Edition models. While Apple did not extend the warranty for these versions, it offered free service for battery-related issues for up to three years, regardless of warranty coverage.
Furthermore, some Series 3 GPS models revealed noticeable stripe patterns on the display, which were also thought to be due to swollen batteries. This string of problems alarmed consumers regarding the general quality of the early Apple Watch models.
## Cracked and Detached Screens
While Apple acknowledged the problem of swollen batteries, the company did not extend the same acknowledgment to allegations about cracked or detached screens. Numerous Apple Watch users claimed that their displays either cracked or separated from the casing, and although some pointed to swollen batteries as the cause, Apple claimed such damage was categorized as accidental harm. Consequently, the company declined to cover these issues under warranty, resulting in widespread discontent among users.
In 2018, the class action lawsuit was lodged, claiming that Apple was aware of the defects in Series 0 through Series 3 models yet continued to reject warranty claims. The lawsuit alleged that Apple’s internal policy was to dismiss the existence of the defect and blame the damage on user negligence.
## $20 Million Apple Watch Compensation
Despite Apple consistently denying the allegations presented in the lawsuit, the company has consented to a settlement amounting to $20 million. According to reports from CNET, this settlement applies to buyers of the Original Apple Watch, Series 1, Series 2, and Series 3, all of which are now discontinued.
In a statement, Apple reaffirmed its stance, asserting that the Apple Watch is “engineered to be safe and dependable.” The company stressed that it disagrees with the allegations made against the early generation of Apple Watch models but opted to settle to prevent further legal disputes.
Compensation for affected users will range from $20 to $50, based on the volume of claims submitted.
## Eligibility and How to File for Payment
To be eligible for the settlement, individuals must satisfy the following conditions:
– Have owned an impacted Apple Watch model within the United States.
– Have reported the issue to Apple between April 24, 2015, and February 6, 2024.
Apple will automatically inform eligible claimants, meaning they do not need to take action to be included in the settlement. Payments will be processed via the payment method that Apple has on record for the claimant.
However, to ensure their payment details are accurate, it is recommended for users to visit the specified settlement link to update their information. This can only be accomplished after Apple has reached out to them with unique login credentials, and updates must be finalized by April 10, 2025.
## Conclusion
The class action lawsuit against Apple concerning early Apple Watch models emphasizes the significance of product quality and customer service within the technology sector. While Apple has taken measures to address the swollen battery issue, the refusal to acknowledge display defects has resulted in considerable customer dissatisfaction. The recent settlement, while not indicative of wrongdoing, offers some financial respite to affected users and highlights the ongoing challenges consumers encounter with electronic devices.
