Apple may owe you a slice of its $20 million Apple Watch settlement. Find out if you’re eligible

Apple has agreed to settle a class action lawsuit that alleged the iPhone maker sold early Apple Watch models that included batteries that could swell. The company has set aside $20 million to pay claims related to the suit. Here’s what to know about the lawsuit and whether you are eligible to receive a cut of the payout.

What is the Apple Watch class action lawsuit about?

The class action lawsuit alleged that Apple sold its early Apple Watch models with an internal battery that could swell. According to the lawsuit settlement website, the swollen batteries violated consumer protection laws and breached warranties.

Which Apple Match models are included?

The class action lawsuit alleged that the swollen battery issue affected many of Apple’s earliest Apple Watch models. These models include:

• Apple Watch (First Generation)
• Apple Watch Series 1
• Apple Watch Series 2
• Apple Watch Series 3

Apple Watch models beyond the Series 3 are not included in the class action lawsuit or the settlement.

What has Apple agreed to in the settlement?

As part of the settlement, Apple has agreed to set up a $20 million settlement fund from which settlement claimants can receive compensation. In agreeing to enter into a settlement, Apple admitted to no wrongdoing and a court did not declare Apple was at fault.

Companies frequently agree to settle class action suits instead of going to trial, as settlement agreements are frequently less than what it would cost a company to go to court.

Fast Company has reached out to Apple for commment about the settlement.

How much can I get from the settlement?

If you are eligible to be considered a claimant under the settlement, the amount you will receive varies.

It is estimated that claimants will receive at least $20 per Apple Watch that is covered under the settlement. Payouts are capped at a maximum of $50 per covered Apple Watch. The final amount a claimant will get depends on how many claimants are eligible for payment and how many Apple Watches are covered under the settlement that they owned.

Who can receive a payout from the Apple Watch settlement?

In order to receive a payout from the settlement, you must meet the qualifications to be considered a claimant. Those qualifications include:

• You must have owned one or more of the covered Apple Watch models (First Generation, Series 1, Series 2, or Series 3).
• You must have also previously reported issues that may have been related to battery swelling to Apple.
• Reports to Apple must have been made between April 24, 2015, and February 6, 2024.
• You must reside in the United States.

How can I get my payment?

You don’t need to do anything to file a claim, as Apple will have a record of those who contacted the company to report potential battery swelling issues in covered Apple Watch models. 

However, you should make sure that Apple has your latest payment details so you can receive the payment if you are eligible. You can update your payment details on the official settlement website.

The date you must confirm or update your payment information is April 25, 2025. Other dates apply if you want to exclude yourself from the settlement.

Those who think they may be covered under the settlement should check out the official settlement website for full details, including how to opt out of the settlement.

What’s the timeline for payments?

First, a court has to approve the settlement. A final hearing date is set for April 10. At the hearing, the court will weigh factors such as whether the settlement is reasonable and if there are any objections.

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