UK tribunal gives go ahead for $4 billion lawsuit against Apple over iCloud services
UK Competition Tribunal Approves Collective Action Against Apple
LONDON, June 23 (Reuters) - Britain's competition tribunal has approved a £3 billion ($4 billion) lawsuit against Apple over its iCloud storage service, consumer group Which? said on Tuesday, clearing the way for tens of millions of consumers to join a collective action.
Details of the Tribunal's Decision
The Competition Appeal Tribunal granted earlier in June a collective proceedings order allowing Which? to represent Apple users, after rejecting an attempt by the U.S. tech giant to block parts of the case.
Background of the Lawsuit
Which? filed the claim in November 2024 and argues Apple abused a dominant position by "trapping" users of iPhones and other devices into its iCloud storage service, limiting their ability to switch to rival cloud providers.
Allegations Against Apple
The consumer group says Apple did this by technically restricting how certain files can be stored, tying iCloud to iOS devices and using prompts and system design to steer users towards its own service, weakening competition and driving up prices.
Which? Statement
"Which? wants to make clear that no company, no matter how powerful, can get away with abusing its position," Which? Chief Executive Anabel Hoult said in a statement.
Apple's Response
In response to a request for comment, Apple pointed to previous statements in which it said the claims were unfounded, that no customer was required to use its iCloud service, with alternatives available, and that it "strongly disagrees" with the tribunal's original decision and planned to appeal.
Impact and Next Steps
Potential Damages and Affected Users
The case is being brought on behalf of nearly 40 million UK iCloud users who used the service between November 2018 and June 2026. Which? estimates total damages at around £3 billion, with potential payouts of up to £77 per person of the claim succeed.
Timeline for the Case
A trial is expected in 2028.
Additional Information
($1 = 0.7563 pounds)
(Reporting by Sam Tabahriti. Editing by Susan Fenton and Mark Potter)