Federal Lawsuit Initiated Against Apple for Supposed Religious Bias and Retaliation

**EEOC Initiates Legal Action Against Apple for Religious Discrimination**

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has launched a lawsuit against Apple, claiming that the technology company unlawfully dismissed a long-time employee at a Virginia Apple Store due to religious discrimination. The issue revolves around the employee’s request for flexible scheduling after his conversion to Judaism.

As stated in the EEOC’s press release, the employee, who had been with Apple for 16 years and had consistently received favorable performance assessments, requested to modify his work schedule to honor the Sabbath by not being available on Fridays and Saturdays. However, his newly appointed store manager rejected this request, referencing a company policy that supposedly forbade him from taking both days off. Consequently, the employee felt obligated to work on the Sabbath, which was in conflict with his religious convictions.

The situation intensified when, shortly after his accommodation request, Apple commenced disciplinary actions against the employee for alleged breaches of its grooming policies. The EEOC contends that these disciplinary measures were retaliatory, especially after the employee reminded his supervisor of an upcoming day off for religious observance. Ultimately, the employee was let go in January 2024, with Apple claiming the termination was due to another alleged violation of grooming regulations.

The EEOC asserts that these actions violate Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which forbids retaliation against employees who contest discrimination and requires reasonable accommodations for employees’ religious practices, except in cases where such accommodations would impose an undue burden on the employer.

The lawsuit, designated EEOC v. Apple, Inc., Civil Action No. 1:25-cv-1637, has been filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. Before initiating litigation, the EEOC sought to resolve the issue through its conciliation process but was not successful.

This case highlights the significance of workplace accommodations for religious practices and the legal safeguards provided to employees under federal law.

How to Eliminate Your Personal Data from the Internet and Avert Scams with Incogni

**Ways to Erase Your Personal Information from the Internet and Shield Yourself from Scams**

Have you ever looked up your own name online? You might uncover everything from your home address and phone number to your relatives, employment background, and even financial information. Often, all this is laid bare for strangers. Below, we delve into how to eliminate your details from the internet and safeguard against scams using [Incogni](https://bit.ly/4pLCWVV).

This issue goes beyond mere privacy concerns. Scammers and con artists actively utilize this information to impersonate you, deceive your family, or even establish accounts in your name. Each new data breach intensifies the threat of identity theft, fraud, and targeted scams.

The encouraging news? You *can* remove your information from the internet yourself or by employing services like Incogni. Here’s how to proceed:

### Step 1: Identify Where Your Data is Found

Begin by searching your complete name, address, phone number, and email. Chances are you’ll encounter numerous “people search” websites, background check services, and data broker entries revealing your information.

### Step 2: Reach Out to Sites Individually

Each site has its own “opt-out” procedure. Some may need forms, others may require emails, and many ask for identification proof. Prepare for delays and convoluted processes — it’s crafted to discourage you.

### Step 3: Persistently Follow Up

Even after you’ve requested removal, many sites may quietly re-list your information. You will need to periodically check back and submit requests anew to ensure your data remains off their records.

### Step 4: Continue Monitoring

New brokers constantly emerge, re-scraping your information. It’s a never-ending cycle of searching, requesting, and repeating. Stay vigilant for any reappearances of your personal data and go through this cycle again.

### Or Allow Incogni to Manage It Automatically

Manually executing these steps can demand hundreds of hours and ongoing attention. That’s [where Incogni comes in](https://bit.ly/4mHQ0IW).

Instead of tracking down brokers on your own, Incogni takes care of it for you. Incogni:

– Reaches out to hundreds of data brokers on your behalf
– Monitors requests and keeps them up-to-date
– Manages follow-ups to ensure your details *remain* removed
– Covers over 420 data brokers automatically, and with [Incogni Unlimited](https://bit.ly/4pLCWVV), you can submit any website link showcasing your information for custom removal requests.

Think of it as employing a cleaner for your personal data online. It will scan where your data’s exposed, contact the sites, and manage follow-ups for you.

### Tangible Results You Can Experience

Erasing your information offers immediate advantages:

– Scammers can’t impersonate you if they can’t locate you
– Reduced junk mail, robocalls, and spam texts
– Decreased risk of identity theft and financial fraud
– Enhanced peace of mind knowing your private matters stay confidential.

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Apple and Amazon Cleared of Wrongdoing in iPhone and iPad Price-Fixing Lawsuit

A federal court in Seattle has rejected a lawsuit that accused Apple and Amazon of illegally manipulating prices for iPhones and iPads. The suit, filed in 2022 by Steven Floyd and his legal representatives, claimed that Apple aimed to restrict the number of iPhone and iPad resellers on Amazon’s marketplace. The lawsuit asserted that Apple agreed to sell its products to Amazon at lowered wholesale prices in return for Amazon limiting third-party vendors. Both companies have refuted these claims.

The case dismissal occurred after U.S. District Judge Kymberly Evanson determined that Floyd’s attorneys did not inform the court that Floyd had withdrawn from the case. Instead, they alleged he had become difficult to contact while seeking new plaintiffs to take his place. Judge Evanson stressed the necessity for transparency from legal representatives in her judgment, indicating that the misrepresentation required a reassessment of previous court orders and findings.

In her ruling, Judge Evanson remarked, “The Court depends on counsel to be honest, by rule and by necessity… Without a plaintiff left to pursue this case, it must be dismissed.” Floyd’s individual claims were dismissed with prejudice, and the court rejected any efforts to introduce new named plaintiffs. The judge also pointed out that court resources are finite, which impacted her choice to dismiss the case following numerous hearings intended to resolve the matter equitably.

The rejection of this lawsuit signifies a notable development in the ongoing examination of pricing strategies within the tech sector, especially regarding major companies like Apple and Amazon.

iOS 26 Unveils Seven Fresh Ringtones for iPhone Users: Tune In Now

### New Ringtones in iOS 26 Present Remixed Versions of Default ‘Reflections’ Tone

Apple’s iPhone has long been recognized for its unique default ringtone, but with the launch of iOS 26, users are welcomed with an exciting array of alternative choices. This update brings forth a total of seven new ringtones, six of which feature remixed versions of the cherished default tone, ‘Reflection’.

#### Overview of New Ringtones

To explore the new ringtones, users can head to the Sounds & Haptics section within the Settings app. The latest selections include:

– **Default** (Original Reflection)
– **Buoyant**
– **Dreamer**
– **Pond**
– **Pop**
– **Reflected**
– **Surge**

The classic ‘Reflection’ stays intact, while the other six alternatives offer a contemporary spin on a timeless sound, enabling users to tailor their ringtone experience while maintaining a sense of familiarity.

#### Unique Addition: Little Bird

In addition to the remixed versions, iOS 26 unveils a brand-new ringtone named **Little Bird**. This charming and whimsical tone distinguishes itself from the remixes and is anticipated to attract users in search of something unique.

#### Conclusion

The arrival of these seven new ringtones enriches the iPhone’s auditory landscape, complementing other enhancements introduced in iOS 26, including a revamped Phone app. Users can now relish a mix of familiarity and innovation, facilitating a more personalized experience on their devices. Which new ringtone appeals to you?

Apple Includes Apple Watch Series 3 and iPhone 11 Pro Max in Vintage Products Catalog

**Apple’s Vintage Product Listing: iPhone 11 Pro Max and Apple Watch Series 3**

Apple has recently included the iPhone 11 Pro Max along with all versions of the Apple Watch Series 3 in its vintage product listing. This categorization has consequences for users and collectors of these devices.

### Comprehending Apple’s Vintage Designation

Apple marks a product as “vintage” five years post its discontinuation from sale. Although this designation does not directly impact the availability of hardware service and parts, it signifies that the product is no longer actively supported by Apple. After another five years, products are termed “obsolete,” meaning they will cease to receive any official support or service from Apple.

### Recently Listed Vintage Products

According to MacRumors, the following items have been included in Apple’s vintage products list:

– **iPhone 11 Pro Max**
– **Apple Watch Series 3 Versions:**
– Aluminum, 38mm
– Aluminum, 42mm
– Edition (Ceramic), 38mm
– Edition (Ceramic), 42mm
– Hermes, 38mm
– Hermes, 42mm
– Nike, 38mm
– Nike, 42mm
– Stainless Steel, 38mm
– Stainless Steel, 42mm

It is noteworthy that the regular 5.8-inch iPhone 11 Pro was not included on the vintage list, with only the larger iPhone 11 Pro Max being listed.

### Consequences for Users

For individuals still using these devices, the vintage classification acts as a reminder of the product’s age and the eventual reduction in support. While hardware service and parts might still be on hand, it’s recommended that users think about upgrading to newer models as support may lessen over time.

### Final Thoughts

The inclusion of the iPhone 11 Pro Max and Apple Watch Series 3 in Apple’s vintage product list signifies a notable milestone in the lifecycle of these devices. As technology progresses, users should remain aware of the status of their devices and plan ahead for necessary upgrades.