Australia takes Apple to court over claims it ‘refused’ to look at or repair devices previously serviced by a third-party
The case followed an investigation into reports users who had an ‘Error 53’ that disabled their iPads or iPhones after updating their operating systems were ‘routinely refused’ by Apple to have their devices looked at or serviced
Apple was taken to court by Australia’s consumer watchdog for violating laws by allegedly refusing to look at or repair some iPads and iPhones previously serviced by a third party.
The tech giant “made false, misleading, or deceptive representations about consumers’ rights under the Australian Consumer Law”, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) charged.
The proceedings, against Apple Pty Limited and its US-based parent Apple Inc, were brought on behalf of 275 consumers.
Under Australian law, each breach can attract a fine of up to A$1.1 million (US$830 million), although it is up to the court to determine the size of the penalty.
The case followed an ACCC investigation into reports users who had an “Error 53” that disabled their iPads or iPhones after updating their operating systems were “routinely refused” by Apple to have their devices looked at or serviced.