A class action lawsuit is on the verge of becoming a reality, potentially allowing millions in the UK to claim a slice of a whopping £3 billion against tech giant Apple. Consumer advocacy group Which? has accused Apple of “trapping” customers into its cloud service, claiming that around 40 million iCloud users could each receive about £77 if the lawsuit is successful. The lawsuit targets individuals who used iCloud between November 2018 and June 2026 and were residing in the UK on June 8, 2026, unless they decide to opt out.
Apple, however, isn’t taking this lying down. The company has labeled the claims as baseless, asserting that no one is forced to use the iCloud service as there are alternatives available. They’ve expressed strong disagreement with the tribunal’s decision and plan to appeal. Interestingly, Apple provides a small amount of free storage, but once that runs out, users are nudged to pay for iCloud to back up their precious photos, videos, messages, and other content. Pricing starts at 99p a month for 50GB, going up to a staggering £54.99 for 12TB.
But here’s where it gets a bit murky. Apple restricts rival storage services from accessing its devices fully, citing security reasons. While this might sound good for security, it also means iCloud offers more features compared to non-Apple alternatives. Which? alleges that since 2015, Apple has effectively locked users into its ecosystem and has been overcharging them as a result. The consumer group filed the claim against Apple at the Competition Appeal Tribunal on behalf of affected consumers back in November 2024.
Anabel Hoult, the CEO of Which?, made it clear that no company, regardless of its power, can escape accountability for abusing its position. The green light from the tribunal is a significant step toward delivering the redress that consumers believe they deserve from Apple. “This should send a strong message to any other companies using anti-competitive tactics,” she declared.
However, don’t expect this case to be resolved anytime soon. The tribunal isn’t expected to hear the case until October 2028. Consumers who used iCloud during the specified time frame must take action if they want to be part of the claim. Those living in the UK on June 8, 2026, need to notify Which? by October 8, 2026, if they wish to opt out. And for anyone who started using iCloud after June 8, 2026? Sorry, but they won’t be included in this legal battle.
It’s also crucial to note that opting out means no compensation will be awarded, even if the group scores a win. So, if you’re in the UK on June 8, 2026, and want to avoid being part of this claim, you better act fast!
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Kaynak: Orijinal Haber