An affected Apple Watch | Image credit: Reddit
Owners of early-generation Apple Watch models are eligible for payments related to a six-year-old class action lawsuit. Here’s who can file.
In 2019, a lawsuit was filed against Apple alleging that Apple Watch Series 1 through Apple Watch Series 3 were unsafe. According to the lawsuit, Apple ignored an issue that could cause the batteries to swell and break critical components, such as the screen.
Now, nearly six years later, a settlement has finally been reached. Apple has agreed to pay out $20 million to resolve the claims — but not because the company admits to any wrongdoing.
“This settlement applies to purchasers of Original Apple Watch, Series 1, Series 2 and Series 3, which are no longer available for purchase,” the company said in a statement sent to CNET. “While we strongly disagree with the claims made against these early generation Apple Watch models, we agreed to settle to avoid further litigation.”
To qualify for compensation, a person must have owned an affected Apple Watch model and have proof they reported an issue related to battery swelling between April 24, 2015, and February 6, 2024.
Those already on record as affected will receive a notice via email or postcard to confirm eligibility for a class payment.
If someone accepts the payment, they waive their ability to pursue further legal action against Apple regarding this specific issue. Settlement class members should head to watchsettlement.com to confirm or update payment information by April 10, 2025.
Those who want to exclude themselves from the settlement and file another claim against Apple related to the case must do so by February 24, 2025.
The settlement website also informs members that they can write to the court and weigh in on the case and its results, but must do so before February 24, 2025. They can also ask to speak to the court at the April 10, 2025 hearing.
It is important to note that settlement class members cannot ask the court to order a larger settlement.
Members can also choose to take no option. If the settlement administrator has a member’s current payment information, the member will receive a payment. This option also binds the member to the settlement, preventing them from bringing further claims against Apple regarding this specific issue.
Watchsettlement.com notes that the court in charge of this case still has to decide whether to approve the settlement. If approved, members will get payments after any appeals are resolved.
