
Apple's controversial decision in 2017 to slow down older iPhones with depleted batteries appears to have reached a resolution, with reports emerging that affected users are now receiving compensation in the form of settlements.
As per a MacRumors report, individuals impacted by this matter have begun seeing deposits of $92.17 appearing in their bank accounts. The website initially confirmed this development and later updated its coverage with a shared post from one of its readers.
The settlement website, which had been revamped in December, indicated that payments were slated for distribution this month, effectively bringing the long-standing issue to a close.
The "batterygate" ordeal kicked off in 2017 when an iOS 10 update was found to be limiting the performance of older iPhone models such as the iPhone 6S and iPhone 7, as reported by The Verge.
Initially, Apple did not disclose the rationale behind the slowdown but eventually acknowledged that it aimed to prevent these phones from unexpectedly shutting down due to battery degradation.
This led to the filing of numerous class action lawsuits against Apple, alleging that the company's actions coerced customers into prematurely upgrading their devices instead of opting for a battery replacement.
In 2020, Apple reached a settlement agreement, and by August of that year, a legal firm representing the affected customers confirmed that the final legal hurdles had been cleared, paving the way for the forthcoming payouts.
While initial expectations suggested payments of around $65 for those who filed approved claims by October 6th, 2020, the actual disbursements now seem to be higher at $92.17.
The iPhone models affected by this issue encompassed the iPhone 6, 6 Plus, 6S, 6S Plus, 7, 7 Plus, and the original iPhone SE. For those among the affected user base, it's advisable to monitor your bank accounts for the anticipated settlement payments.