In 2018, a class action lawsuit was initiated against Apple, claiming defects in earlier Apple Watch models that could potentially lead to cracks or detachment of the display.
Apple acknowledged certain issues related to swollen batteries and offered complimentary services; however, they declined coverage for cracked or detached screens. Recently, the company has consented to a financial settlement regarding this matter…
The Issue of Swollen Batteries
The problem was highlighted in 2017 when original Apple Watch (‘Series 0’) users reported that swollen batteries were causing the display to lift from the casing. In response, Apple provided a free three-year extended warranty for the issue.
Similar concerns arose with some Series 2 models, particularly the 42mm versions of Sport, Nike+, Hermès, and Edition models. While Apple did not officially extend the warranty this time, they assured free service for this issue for up to three years regardless of warranty status.
Further issues emerged with certain Series 3 GPS models, which displayed visible stripe markings, possibly due to swollen batteries exerting pressure on the screen.
Cracked and Detached Displays
Some users reported that their Apple Watches had displays that cracked or detached from the casing. Although these issues were claimed to be related to swollen batteries, Apple did not recognize this, nor did they provide any in-warranty or out-of-warranty coverage, labeling display damage as accidental damage instead.
This led to a class action lawsuit in 2018, alleging that Apple was aware of defects present in Series 0 through Series 3 models but was denying warranty claims.
“Apple knew that the Watches were defective at or before the time it began selling them to the public. Furthermore, consumers complained to Apple about the defect almost immediately after the release of the Series 0, Series 1, Series 2, and Series 3 Watches…”
“Additionally, Apple’s response to the defect suggests an internal policy of denying its existence, attributing it to ‘accidental damage’ caused by consumers, and subsequently refusing to honor its Limited Warranty on those grounds.”
$20M Apple Watch Settlement
While Apple denies the allegations stated in the lawsuit, CNET reports that the company has reached an agreement to pay a total of $20M in settlement.
In a statement to CNET, Apple countered the claims, asserting that the Apple Watch “is designed to be safe and reliable.”
“This settlement pertains to purchasers of the Original Apple Watch, Series 1, Series 2, and Series 3, which are no longer available for sale,” the statement continued. “While we strongly disagree with the claims made against these early generation Apple Watch models, we have chosen to settle to prevent further litigation.”
The payout amount will vary from $20 to $50 depending on the number of claims filed.
Eligibility and Claim Process
To be eligible, you must:
- Have owned an affected Apple Watch model in the US
- Reported the issue to Apple between April 24, 2015, and February 6, 2024
Apple will automatically reach out to those with valid claims, eliminating the need for any action on your part to be included in the settlement. Payments will be issued using the method Apple has on record for you.
To ensure accuracy, it is advisable to check this link to verify that your payment details are up to date. You can only do this after Apple has communicated with you to provide your unique login codes. This must be completed by April 10, 2025.
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