Apple has agreed to pay $20 million to settle a class action lawsuit filed over battery defects found in specific Apple Watch models. The legal dispute centers on allegations that several generations of the Apple Watch were designed without enough internal space to accommodate battery expansion. This flaw led to swollen batteries that caused the display to detach, rendering the device either damaged or unusable.
Consumers who reported this issue within a defined time frame may be eligible for financial compensation ranging from $20 to $50 per device. The settlement covers devices used between April 24, 2015, and February 6, 2024.
Background of the Apple Watch Battery Lawsuit
Shortly after Apple launched its initial smartwatch models, users began complaining about swollen batteries causing the screen to lift or detach entirely. The lawsuit, filed under case number 4:21-cv-09527-HSG in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California, alleged that Apple failed to allow enough room inside the Apple Watch casing for normal battery swelling.
As a result, expanding lithium-ion batteries exerted pressure from within the watch, ultimately pushing the screen out. Many affected users had to pay for repairs themselves because Apple’s warranty reportedly did not cover this type of damage. The plaintiffs argued that Apple was aware of this defect for several years but did not take adequate steps to fix it or alert consumers.
Although Apple continues to deny any wrongdoing or defect in its design, the company agreed to the $20 million settlement to resolve the lawsuit and avoid further litigation.
Which Apple Watch Models Are Included?
The settlement applies to users who owned or currently own any of the following Apple Watch models:
- First Generation
- Series 1
- Series 2
- Series 3
If you experienced battery swelling that caused screen damage and reported the issue to Apple during the period between April 24, 2015, and February 6, 2024, you may qualify for a payment under the settlement terms. Reports must be documented in Apple’s official service records to be considered valid.
Avast Class Action Settlement 2025, How to File for a FTC Refund
USA Student Loan Cost Increase 2025, How Increased Costs Will Affect Your Finances
Depo-Provera Class Action Lawsuit 2025, Settlement Updates, Eligibility, and How to File Your Claim
BCBS Class Action Settlement, How to Claim Your Share of the $2.67 Billion Payout
Walgreens Class Action Settlement 2025, Know Your Eligibility and Claim Deadline
Who Is Eligible?
To be eligible for compensation, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must have owned or currently own one of the above-listed Apple Watch models.
- The device must have been used for personal or household use.
- You reported battery swelling or related screen issues to Apple during the stated eligibility period.
- Your issue is listed in Apple’s service records.
Notably, no claim form is necessary. Eligible consumers will be automatically considered for payment, though they are advised to confirm their details on the official settlement website.
How Much Will You Receive?
Payouts will vary depending on how many valid claims are received. The total settlement fund of $20 million will be used to cover all consumer compensation, legal fees, administrative costs, and other related expenses.
- Minimum payout: $20 per qualifying Apple Watch
- Maximum potential payout: $50 per device (if enough funds remain after all claims are processed)
If the number of claims exceeds the available funds, individual payments may be reduced proportionally to ensure a fair distribution among all eligible participants.
How to Get Your Settlement Payment?
Since no claim form is required, the process is relatively simple. However, eligible individuals are urged to visit the official settlement website (http://WatchSettlement.com) to confirm their contact and payment details.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Visit the website and review the details of the settlement.
- Confirm your eligibility by checking if your device and repair report are listed.
- Verify or update your payment information to avoid delays.
If you do not confirm your payment details, you risk missing out on your compensation or experiencing processing delays.
Important Dates to Remember
Here are the key deadlines and milestones related to the Apple Watch class action settlement:
| Action | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Last Date to Object or Opt Out | February 24, 2025 |
| Payment Confirmation Deadline | April 10, 2025 |
| Final Approval Hearing | April 10, 2025 |
If you did not opt out by the February deadline, and your issue is recorded in Apple’s service data, your payment will be processed after the final court hearing. Anyone who objected to the terms or excluded themselves will not be eligible for a payout.
Final Verdict
This $20 million class action settlement provides financial relief to Apple Watch users who experienced battery swelling and related screen damage in early models. If you reported the problem to Apple between April 24, 2015, and February 6, 2024, and your issue is documented, you should automatically qualify for a payout.
Be sure to confirm your information on the official settlement website before April 10, 2025, to ensure your compensation is processed smoothly. Depending on the number of valid claims, payouts could be as high as $50 per device.