If you have an Apple Watch, you may be eligible for a payout as part of a $20 million settlement.
A class action lawsuit accused Apple of selling some watch models that were defective because they didn’t have enough space to accommodate so-called “battery swell.” Without enough space, a swelling battery — which is normal in a battery’s life — can cause damage to the watch’s screen and other parts.
Apple did not admit to any wrongdoing as part of the settlement, which still needs the final approval of a judge, and it did not respond to requests for comment.
The models included in the settlement are certain First Generation, Series 1, Series 2 or Series 3 watches that were reported by consumers to Apple and appear in Apple’s records as having possible battery swell issues, the settlement website said.
It covers complaints from April 24, 2015 to Feb. 6, 2024, the website said.
Consumers who are eligible for the settlement should receive a notification postcard.
After you receive the post card, which will have a Notice ID and Confirmation Code, you should confirm or update your payment information by April 10, 2025 at www.watchsettlement.com.
“You may elect to receive the payment by physical check, electronic check, ACH transfer (direct deposit), or virtual prepaid Visa or MasterCard, and providing the corresponding e-mail address, banking information, or mailing address for the payment’s distribution,” it said.
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Those who don’t confirm their payment information by the deadline may receive:
— An electronic payment by email if the settlement administrator has your email address;
— A physical check by mail if the settlement administrator has your current mailing address.
If you don’t confirm or update your information, you will not receive a payment, it said.
How much you will get depends on how many people are ultimately included in the settlement and how many people update or confirm their payment information, the website said. It’s estimated that most people will receive about $20 per watch, though it could be less or more, it said. It also said payments are capped at $50 per watch.
If you don’t receive the card or you’re not sure if you’re eligible, you can call the settlement manager at (844) 933-4042.
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Karin Price Mueller may be reached at KPriceMueller@NJAdvanceMedia.com. Follow her on X at @KPMueller.
