How to get a refund from Apple’s $20 million Watch settlement
Apple is shelling out $20 million to settle a lawsuit over swollen batteries in older Apple Watch models. But not everyone’s getting a piece of the pie. So, who qualifies, and how do you claim your share?
Just a few days ago we had the news that Google is offering $50 compensation for Fitbit Sense and Versa 3 owners affected by overheating battery issues. Now Apple is also forking out some cash.
If you owned a First Generation, Series 1, Series 2, or Series 3 Apple Watch and had problems with the battery expanding and damaging the screen, you might be eligible for a payout. The important thing to note? You needed to have reported the issue to Apple in the U.S. between April 24, 2015, and February 6, 2024.
Apple has not admitted to anything. In fact, the company denies doing anything wrong, saying in a statement that it rejects all claims made in the lawsuit. Still, they’ve decided to settle rather than fight it out in court.
The exact amount people will get depends on how many claims are filed, but estimates suggest payments could be between $20 and $50 per affected device. That’s not exactly a windfall, but it’s something.
Who qualifies for a payment?
To be eligible, you need to have owned one of the affected Apple Watch models and reported battery swelling issues to Apple during the specified timeframe. If your Watch had problems but you never contacted Apple about it, you’re out of luck – you won’t qualify for the settlement.
This settlement is only for US customers. If you bought your Watch elsewhere – again, you’re out of luck.
So how do you get in on this?
If you’re eligible, you need to confirm or update your payment information by April 10, 2025. The settlement administrators will be handling payouts, and they’ll decide how much each person gets based on the number of claims.
To file a claim, visit the official settlement online form and follow the instructions. If you’ve already been identified as eligible, you should have received a notice with details on how to submit your claim.
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If you think the settlement isn’t enough or you want to keep your right to sue Apple separately, you can opt out. You’ll need to submit a request to exclude yourself by February 24, 2025. If you don’t do anything, you’ll automatically be included in the settlement and will give up your right to take any further legal action over this issue.
You can also file an objection if you think the settlement is unfair, but that deadline is also February 24, 2025.
Should you bother filing a claim?
If your Apple Watch suffered from battery swelling and you already reported it, it’s worth filing a claim—you may as well get your share of the settlement. However, even if you qualify, the most you’ll likely get is $50. And that’s if fewer people than expected file claims.
For more details head over to the official settlement page.
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