In an unprecedented move, Apple has begun the process of compensating Apple iPhone 7 and Apple iPhone 7 Plus users affected by a notorious audio issue known as “Loop Disease.” This decision comes after a lengthy legal battle that culminated in a $35 million settlement agreement last year, addressing complaints about defective chips causing significant audio problems in these devices.
Apple iPhone 7: The End of a Six-Year Saga
For years, Apple iPhone 7 users have reported frustrating audio glitches, including a “grayed out” speaker button during calls, rendering the user inaudible during cellular or FaceTime conversations, and the Voice Memo app becoming inoperable.
Dubbed “Loop Disease,” this defect became the center of a class-action lawsuit filed against the tech giant in multiple US states back in 2019.
The lawsuit accused Apple of violating consumer protection laws and failing to honor warranties, citing “insufficient and inadequate” external casing materials that failed to protect the phone’s internal components.
In 2018, Apple acknowledged the microphone issues plaguing some Apple iPhone 7 units, yet the full scope of affected devices remained undisclosed.
Eligibility Criteria for Compensation
The recent settlement offers financial relief to US residents who purchased an Apple iPhone 7 or 7 Plus between September 16, 2016, and January 3, 2023, and have formally reported the audio issues to Apple.
Additionally, individuals who incurred costs repairing or replacing their device due to these specific problems are also eligible for compensation.
Apple to issue class action payments following iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus “loop disease” audio issues
If you slogged through audio issues with an iPhone 7 or iPhone 7 Plus, compensation may be en route to help make things right. Apple last year agreed to … https://t.co/PNlu1ETuCE
— Chisto (@ChistoDotMe) January 18, 2024
Apple has initiated outreach to inform eligible customers directly. However, those who believe they qualify but have not received notification can proactively submit a claim by contacting the designated settlement email address.
How Much Will Affected Users Receive?
Under the terms of the proposed settlement, eligible Apple iPhone 7 and 7 Plus users can receive up to $125 in compensation. For those who paid out-of-pocket expenses for repairs or replacements due to the covered audio issues, claims can amount to as much as $349.
The deadline for filing objections to the settlement, selecting a payment method, or opting out is set for June 3, 2024, with a final approval hearing by a California court scheduled for July 18, 2024. Complete details are available on the Smartphone Audio Settlement website.
This settlement marks a significant acknowledgment by Apple of the issues surrounding its Apple iPhone 7 series, offering a semblance of closure to affected users.
As Apple turns this page, customers impacted by “Loop Disease” are encouraged to claim their rightful compensation, ensuring they are duly recognized for the inconveniences endured.
