The class action lawsuit stems from claims that both models of the iPhone, which Apple released in 2016, have issues with the audio integrated chip, or audio IC.
Signs of a faulty IC chip include not being able to use the phone’s loudspeaker, the microphone not working properly, an unresponsive device, or an unexpected phone restart.
Microphone-dependent features, like Siri and voice memos, may also have been glitchy.
Other plaintiffs in the suit said they were only able to hear calls on speakerphone, or they would hear static when trying to play videos.
The lawsuit claims Apple was aware of the issues, but didn’t offer to repair the phones for free.
In order to qualify as part of the settlement class, you need to have owned an iPhone 7 or 7 plus between September 2016 and January 2023 and reported audio chip issues to Apple.
They’ll be noted in Apple’s records if you contacted the company for support.
After lawyers take their cut and administrative fees, the total amount that goes to the settlement class is severely reduced.
Apple denies all wrongdoing, but has agreed to pay out the $35 million to settle the lawsuit.
