Apple iPhone users may get relief as India escalates iOS 18 warranty probe
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Apple may face refunds or business changes as India deepens iOS 18 probe
India’s CCPA has escalated its probe into Apple’s iOS 18 warranty terms after complaints about display and microphone problems and costly repairs. Apple denies any systemic iOS 18 issue. A final finding could potentially mean refunds or changes to Apple’s practices.
Apple is facing a deeper regulatory probe in India over its iOS 18 software warranty terms, after consumers complained about display and microphone problems following the update and costly repair bills.
The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) escalated the matter to its investigation wing on July 29, ordering a detailed investigation into alleged violations of consumer rights, according to documents reviewed by Reuters. The case could have consequences beyond a fine. If the regulator ultimately finds against Apple, the company could potentially be required to provide refunds or change aspects of its business practices.
What is the iOS 18 controversy?
The complaints relate to Apple's iOS 18 update, released in late 2024. The CCPA says some users reported green, pink or white lines appearing on iPhone displays after upgrading. Other complaints involved display and microphone malfunctions.
The regulator alleges that consumers were then forced to pay what it described as “exorbitant amounts” for repairs or replacement screens, despite the complaints being linked to the software update. Reuters reported that servicing an iPhone 15 screen can cost about ₹27,900, or roughly $291. The CCPA says it received 75 complaints and is treating the matter as an issue affecting consumers as a class.
Apple says iOS 18 has no systemic problem
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Apple is contesting the allegations.
In an August 20 response to investigators, the company said iOS 18 underwent stringent testing and that it had identified no systemic issues or safety concerns with the software in India. Apple also argues that its software licence terms are standard industry practice. Its agreements state that the software is provided without a warranty, while its limited warranty generally covers hardware. The company said consumers are informed about these terms before installing the software and pointed to similar approaches used by companies including Sony and Samsung.
Apple also noted that only around 11 per cent of iPhones were still running iOS 18 by June 2026.
Could Apple be forced to change its policy?
That is now the key question. The investigation will allow authorities to examine documents and hear Apple's position before a final report is prepared. Legal expert Kirti Mahapatra told Reuters that where warranty conditions are part of an alleged unfair practice, the CCPA can seek changes to how such terms are communicated. She said forcing changes to warranty terms would, however, be unprecedented. For Apple, the dispute comes at an important time in India. Its iPhone market share has grown from 4 per cent in 2022 to 9 per cent last year, according to Counterpoint Research. That makes the outcome important not just for Apple, but also for millions of Indian iPhone users who increasingly rely on software updates to keep their devices running.
