Consumer watchdog steps up probe into Apple

The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) in India has launched a comprehensive investigation into potential breaches of consumer rights following complaints regarding issues with Apple's iPhone after the installation of iOS 18. The watchdog had raised the matter with Apple last year after receiving numerous reports linking the iOS 18 update to display, microphone, and other device malfunctions. The dispute centers on the responsibility for covering repair costs when devices malfunction post-software updates.

According to Apple's software license terms, the tech giant provides its software without any warranty, implying that users may be responsible for repair expenses if problems arise. As of June, 79% of Apple users worldwide were utilizing iOS 26, with this percentage rising to 86% for users of devices launched within the past four years.

When queried about the consumer complaints, Apple stated to ET that it closely monitors user feedback following every software update, and it did not identify any issues, safety concerns, or similar trends linked to the iOS 18 launch in India. The company added that it would collaborate with local authorities to provide further clarity on user response to iOS 18.

If the regulator confirms the violations, the investigation may result in penalties against Apple. The CCPA previously imposed a ₹10 lakh penalty on ride-hailing platform Rapido for utilizing misleading prompts and interface design to push customers into paying more for rides. The consumer watchdog found that Rapido employed two practices classified as dark patterns - confirm shaming and interface interference - and directed the company to discontinue these misleading prompts and practices steering customers toward higher payments, as per a statement released on Tuesday.