# **Overview of Apple’s Batterygate Lawsuit in the UK**
The debate over Apple’s **Batterygate** issue is still ongoing, particularly in the UK. Despite an extended period of legal challenges, Apple is now confronted with a **$1 billion lawsuit** alleging that it intentionally throttled the performance of older iPhones to deal with battery degradation. The UK Court of Appeal has sanctioned the case to move forward, compelling Apple to present its defense in court.
## **Understanding Batterygate**
Batterygate pertains to Apple’s choice to **reduce the performance** of older iPhones to avert unexpected shutdowns associated with aging batteries. This matter emerged in **2017**, when users observed that their devices were slowing down post software updates. Apple subsequently confessed to having added a power management feature in iOS to limit peak performance in older devices with diminished battery quality.
While Apple asserted this was aimed at **prolonging battery lifespan and averting crashes**, numerous users felt deceived as they were not made aware of this step. This sparked lawsuits across various nations, including the **United States, France, and the UK**.
## **The Lawsuit in the UK and Apple’s Ongoing Legal Struggle**
Consumer rights activist **Justin Gutmann** initiated a lawsuit against Apple in the UK, accusing the company of intentionally diminishing the speed of iPhones without notifying consumers. The lawsuit represents around **24 million iPhone users** who had the following models:
– **iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus**
– **iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus**
– **iPhone SE (1st generation)**
– **iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus**
The lawsuit seeks compensation for the affected consumers, with potential damages estimated at **£853 million ($1.1 billion)**. Apple sought to dismiss the case, but the **UK Court of Appeal ruled in favor of Gutmann**, allowing the lawsuit to advance.
## **Apple’s Reaction and Battery Replacement Initiative**
In response to the Batterygate uproar, Apple issued a **public apology** in 2017 and launched a **battery replacement initiative**. The company slashed the cost of battery replacements for iPhones from **£65 to £25** in the UK (and from **$79 to $29** in the US) until December 2018.
Despite this move, numerous consumers and legal professionals contend that Apple’s response was inadequate, prompting continued legal challenges.
## **How UK iPhone Users Can Participate in the Lawsuit**
UK iPhone users owning one of the affected models can **take part in the collective lawsuit** against Apple. However, they **cannot file individual lawsuits**. Those wishing to join have until **June 7, 2024**, to sign up for the claim through [this website](https://www.theiphoneclaim.com/).
## **Apple’s Reforms Following Batterygate**
In light of the criticism, Apple has rolled out several new features aimed at enhancing **battery transparency** and empowering users with greater control over their devices:
1. **Battery Health Monitoring** – iPhone users can now verify their battery’s **maximum capacity** and whether performance management is in effect.
2. **Optimized Battery Charging** – This feature aids in **extending battery life** by minimizing wear and tear from constant charging.
3. **Battery Cycle Count** – Apple now supplies information on **battery cycles**, the initial usage date, and overall battery health.
4. **Performance Management Toggle** – Users can now **turn off performance throttling** if they choose to maintain maximum speed at the risk of unexpected shutdowns.
## **Conclusion**
Apple’s Batterygate situation continues to be an important legal and consumer rights matter. Although Apple has made strides to improve battery transparency, the UK lawsuit underscores ongoing discontent among users who feel they were misled.
With the case progressing, Apple may have to face a **substantial payout** to consumers in the UK. If you possessed an affected iPhone, you could be eligible to join the lawsuit before the **June 7 deadline**.
Would you consider joining the lawsuit if you were impacted? Share your opinions with us!
