Class Action Lawsuit Against Apple Moves Forward
A significant class action lawsuit targeting Apple is set to advance to trial, potentially enabling millions of individuals in the United Kingdom to receive a portion of a £3 billion claim. The consumer advocacy organization Which? has accused the technology giant of unfairly restricting users to its cloud storage service, iCloud.
According to Which?, approximately 40 million iCloud customers could each be eligible for around £77 if the lawsuit is successful. The claim encompasses consumers who utilized iCloud between November 2018 and June 2026 and resided in the UK on June 8, 2026, unless they choose to opt out.
Apple has consistently denied these allegations, asserting that its claims are unfounded. The company states that customers are not obligated to use iCloud, as various alternative services are available. Apple has expressed strong disagreement with the tribunal's decision and intends to appeal.
Understanding iCloud Costs and Allegations
Apple devices come with a limited amount of complimentary storage. Once this free allocation is exhausted, users are typically prompted to subscribe to iCloud to back up essential data such as photos, videos, messages, and contacts. Monthly subscription fees for iCloud plans range from 99p for 50GB to £54.99 for 12TB.
Which? alleges that since 2015, Apple has effectively created a monopolistic environment, locking users into its services and subsequently overcharging them. Apple maintains that its restrictions on rival storage services' access to its devices are for security purposes, although this also results in iCloud offering more integrated features compared to non-Apple alternatives.
The consumer group initially filed its claim against Apple at the Competition Appeal Tribunal in November 2024, acting on behalf of affected consumers.
Which? Aims to Challenge Corporate Power
Anabel Hoult, Chief Executive of Which?, emphasized the organization's objective to demonstrate that no corporation, regardless of its influence, should be permitted to exploit its market position. She highlighted that the Competition Appeal Tribunal's approval signifies a crucial step towards securing what Which? believes is due compensation for consumers from Apple.
Hoult stated, "This should send a strong message to any other companies using anti-competitive tactics." The trial is not anticipated to commence until October 2028.
Eligibility for the Claim
Consumers who were residents of the UK on June 8, 2026, and used iCloud between November 8, 2018, and June 8, 2026, are automatically included in the claim unless they opt out. Individuals who were not UK residents on June 8, 2026, but meet the usage criteria must actively opt-in by notifying Which? via its claim website by October 8, 2026.
It is important to note that individuals who began using iCloud after June 8, 2026, are not eligible for this claim. Furthermore, any customer who chooses to opt out will not receive compensation, even if the lawsuit is successful. UK residents wishing to opt out must inform Which? through the claim website by October 8, 2026.
Source: Millions in UK could claim share of £3bn after Apple case given green light