{
  "id": 7650865,
  "title": "India watchdog ‘escalates’ Apple probe; tech giant denies charges",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/15/india-watchdog-escalates-apple-probe-tech-giant-denies-charges",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-09-15T21:27:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Qatar Tribune Business",
    "slug": "qatar-tribune-business",
    "url": "https://www.qatar-tribune.com/article/254032/business/india-watchdog-escalates-apple-probe-tech-giant-denies-charges"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "India's consumer watchdog is intensifying an investigation into Apple's iOS 18 update, allegedly causing damage to iPhone functionality and forcing users to bear costly repair expenses, according to documents. The case has escalated to a detailed probe by the regulator's investigation wing, indicating dissatisfaction with Apple's previous responses. Apple contests the accusations, stating in a letter to Reuters that it aligns with global industry practices to provide no warranty on software, and that iOS 18 does not have systemic issues. If found guilty, Apple could face fines, refund obligations, or changes to business practices. This investigation follows similar scrutiny in Italy and the US, where Apple was sanctioned for inadequate disclosures and support during software updates. Indian consumer law allows the CCPA to seek documents and hold hearings in alleged unfair practices involving consumer rights. Apple asserts its iOS 18 underwent rigorous testing and the CCPA's case is based on a limited number of complaints (75), with only about 11 percent of iPhones using iOS 18 by June 2026. The regulator accuses Apple of violating consumers' rights as a class. Apple's software license agreements state they are \"without warranty,\" and customers must cover repair costs for defective software. The limited warranty covers only hardware, not software. Apple maintains the no-warranty clause is standard in the electronics industry, and users were informed of it before installation. The CCPA alleges that issues like green, pink, or white lines on screens after the iOS 18 upgrade led to \"exorbitant amounts\" in repair costs, surpassing a third of an iPhone's retail price.",
  "summary": "AgenciesIndia’s consumer regulator is examining Apple’s software warranty terms in an investigation of the iOS 18 update alleged to have damaged iPhone functionality, compelling us...",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "The Economic Times",
        "title": "Consumer watchdog steps up probe into Apple",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/15/consumer-watchdog-steps-up-probe-into-apple",
        "published": "2026-09-15T19:32:43.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}