UK tribunal to examine Apple’s iPhone throttling practices and potential consumer compensation

A UK tribunal will soon examine Apple's practices regarding iPhone performance management, potentially affecting millions of users.

The tech giant Apple is set to face scrutiny at the UK’s Competition Appeal Tribunal this week, as lawyers prepare to argue that the company deliberately concealed documents related to the performance throttling of older iPhones. This case, which could impact millions of UK consumers, centers on allegations that Apple used software updates to deliberately slow down older iPhone models to mask battery issues.

Apple has maintained that it is legally entitled to protect commercially sensitive information, while consumer advocates argue that the company’s actions were not transparent with customers. The tribunal’s decision could have significant financial implications, with estimates suggesting that Apple might face a compensation bill of up to £956 million if the claim is successful.

This would potentially benefit 21 million iPhone users in the UK who owned models such as the iPhone 6s, 6s Plus, SE, 7, and 7 Plus.

Legal battle over iPhone performance management

The case, which was first launched in 2026has seen Apple repeatedly attempt to have the lawsuit dismissed.

However, the tribunal’s upcoming hearing will now determine whether Apple must disclose internal documents that consumer campaigners believe prove the company’s intent to throttle iPhone performance. If successful, this legal action could set a precedent for how tech companies manage product performance and transparency with consumers.

Consumer campaigner Justin Gutmannwho is leading the class action, has criticized Apple’s efforts to withhold evidence. He stated, ‘My claim alleges, on behalf of millions of iPhone users, that Apple abused its dominant position. An important aspect of that abuse was it was not transparent with customers.’ Gutmann also questioned why Apple continues to resist disclosing evidence years after the issue was first raised.

Apple’s defense and previous settlements

Apple has consistently denied any wrongdoing, with a spokesperson asserting, ‘We have never – and would never – do anything to intentionally shorten the life of any Apple product or degrade the user experience to drive customer upgrades.’ The company has emphasized its commitment to creating products that customers love, highlighting that making iPhones last as long as possible is a key priority.

This case follows a similar lawsuit in the USwhere Apple settled in 2026 by establishing a compensation fund of approximately $500 millionthough the company did not admit liability. The UK case now raises questions about whether Apple’s practices violated consumer protection laws and whether UK consumers are entitled to similar compensation.

Potential impact on consumers and the tech industry

If the tribunal rules in favor of the claimants, it could result in compensation of around £40 per eligible iPhone user. This outcome would not only provide financial relief to affected consumers but also send a strong message to the tech industry about the importance of transparency in product performance management. The case highlights the growing scrutiny faced by tech companies regarding their practices and the potential consequences of misleading consumers.

As the tribunal hearing approaches, all eyes will be on whether Apple’s defense holds up under legal scrutiny and what this means for the future of consumer rights in the tech sector. The decision could influence how other companies approach product updates and performance management, ensuring greater accountability and transparency in the industry.