Apple to Pay $20 Million for Defective Watch Batteries: Apple has agreed to pay $20 million to settle a class action lawsuit related to battery swelling issues in specific Apple Watch models. The lawsuit claimed that the design of these watches did not allow enough space for battery expansion, which caused the screens to detach or become damaged. Although Apple denies any wrongdoing, the settlement aims to compensate users who reported these issues within the specified period.
This article provides information on eligibility, compensation amounts, deadlines, and the steps to ensure you receive your payment.
Overview Table
| Affected Models | Eligibility Period | Compensation Amount | Deadline to Confirm Payment |
| First Generation, Series 1, Series 2, Series 3 | April 24, 2015 – February 6, 2024 | $20 – $50 per device | April 10, 2025 |
| Exclusion/Objection Deadline | February 24, 2025 | Final Approval Hearing | April 10, 2025 |
| Claim Form Required? | No, payments are automatic | Payment Method Selection | WatchSettlement.com |
Why Apple Is Paying $20 Million
The lawsuit was filed after consumers reported that the lithium-ion batteries in their Apple Watches expanded, causing pressure that led to screen damage or detachment. Some users experienced such severe detachment that their watches became unusable.
The case, filed under number 4:21-cv-09527-HSG in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, accused Apple of not leaving enough internal space for the battery to expand naturally. Although Apple maintains that its devices are designed to be safe and reliable, it chose to settle the lawsuit to avoid extended legal proceedings. The $20 million settlement will cover compensation for affected users, legal fees, and administrative costs.
Who Is Eligible for Compensation
To qualify for compensation from the settlement, you must meet the following criteria:
- You own or previously owned an Apple Watch from the First Generation, Series 1, Series 2, or Series 3.
- You reported battery swelling issues to Apple between April 24, 2015, and February 6, 2024.
- Your issue is documented in Apple’s service records.
- The device was used for personal or household purposes.
No additional documentation is required to receive compensation. However, users should visit WatchSettlement.com to confirm their payment details. If you believe you are eligible but did not receive a notification, you can verify your eligibility on the website.
Compensation Amounts and Payment Structure
The amount of compensation each user receives depends on the number of valid claims submitted.
- The minimum payout is $20 per device.
- The maximum payout is $50 per device if sufficient funds remain after processing all claims.
If the total number of claims exceeds the $20 million fund, payments will be adjusted proportionally to ensure fair distribution. The settlement fund also covers legal fees, administrative expenses, and other related costs.
How to Receive Your Payment
Eligible users do not need to submit a claim form. Payments will be processed automatically, but you must confirm your payment details by following these steps:
- Visit the official settlement website at WatchSettlement.com.
- Verify your eligibility and confirm your payment information.
- Select your preferred payment method, including physical check, electronic check, ACH transfer, or virtual prepaid Visa or MasterCard.
- Ensure all information is submitted before the deadline of April 10, 2025.
Users who fail to confirm their payment details may experience delays or miss their compensation. Payments will be distributed after the final court approval on April 10, 2025.
Important Deadlines to Note
- February 24, 2025: Last day to exclude yourself from the settlement or object to the terms.
- April 10, 2025: Deadline to confirm your payment details on the settlement website.
- April 10, 2025: Final approval hearing, after which payments will be distributed.
Consumers who do not wish to participate in the settlement must opt out by February 24, 2025. Those who remain in the settlement class will receive their payments automatically after the settlement is approved.
Why This Settlement Is Significant
This settlement highlights the importance of holding companies accountable for product defects. By agreeing to the $20 million settlement, Apple aims to provide fair compensation to users who experienced battery swelling issues while avoiding further litigation.
The affected Apple Watch models are no longer available for purchase, as Apple has since released newer versions with updated designs. However, the settlement ensures that users who faced issues with earlier models receive compensation for their inconvenience and repair costs.
Consequences of Not Confirming Your Payment
If you are eligible for compensation but do not confirm your payment details on WatchSettlement.com by April 10, 2025, you may experience delays or lose your right to receive payment. Additionally, by accepting the settlement payment, you waive your right to pursue further legal action against Apple regarding the battery issue.
If you believe you qualify but did not receive a notification, visit the settlement website to verify your eligibility and provide the required information.
Steps to Check Your Eligibility and Claim Your Payment
Follow these steps to ensure you receive your compensation:
- Go to WatchSettlement.com and review the eligibility criteria.
- If eligible, scan the QR code on the website using your phone’s camera or a QR code app.
- Choose your preferred payment method, such as a check, electronic check, ACH transfer, or virtual prepaid card.
- Confirm your payment details before April 10, 2025.
- Wait for the final approval hearing, after which payments will be distributed.
How to Get Assistance With Your Claim
If you have questions or need assistance with your claim, contact the settlement administrator using the details below:
Settlement Administrator: Angeion Group
Address: 1650 Arch St., Suite 2210, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Phone: 800-783-1227
Website: WatchSettlement.com
The settlement administrator can help you verify your eligibility, check your payment status, and provide additional information related to the settlement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which Apple Watch models are included in the settlement?
The settlement covers First Generation, Series 1, Series 2, and Series 3 Apple Watches that experienced battery swelling issues.
How do I know if I qualify for compensation?
You are eligible if you reported battery swelling issues to Apple between April 24, 2015, and February 6, 2024, and your report is documented in Apple’s service records.
How much money will I receive?
Payments range from $20 to $50 per device, depending on the total number of claims submitted.
Do I need to submit a claim form to receive my payment?
No, eligible consumers do not need to submit a claim form. Payments will be processed automatically, but you must confirm your payment details on WatchSettlement.com.
What is the deadline to confirm my payment details?
You must confirm your payment details by April 10, 2025, to receive your compensation. Payments will be distributed after the final approval hearing.
Conclusion
Apple’s $20 million settlement provides compensation to users who experienced battery swelling issues with their First Generation, Series 1, Series 2, and Series 3 Apple Watches. Eligible consumers who reported the issue between April 24, 2015, and February 6, 2024, will receive payments ranging from $20 to $50 per device. Payments will be processed automatically, but consumers must confirm their payment details on WatchSettlement.com before April 10, 2025.
If you believe you qualify for compensation, take action now to ensure you receive your payout. For additional information or assistance, contact the settlement administrator using the details provided above.
