Apple’s iCloud promo — image credit: Apple
The UK’s “Which?” consumer group and publication is planning to sue Apple for allegedly engaging in anti-competitive practices by locking users into paying for iCloud storage.
Apple has faced previous lawsuits over its iCloud storage, with its free 5GB storage tier causing frustration among users. Now, Which? has announced a legal claim against Apple for what it deems as exorbitant prices for iCloud storage.
Which? CEO Anabel Hoult stated, “We believe Apple customers are owed nearly 3 billion pounds [$3.8 billion] due to Apple’s practices of forcing iCloud services and stifling competition from other providers.” The claim is aimed at holding Apple accountable for what is perceived as unfair practices in the cloud storage market.
Which? has lodged a complaint with the UK’s Competition Appeal Tribunal, asserting that approximately 40 million Apple customers in the UK who have used iCloud services over the past nine years could be eligible for compensation.
Apple has refuted the allegations, stating that its iCloud practices are not anti-competitive and will vigorously defend against any legal action.
The argument revolves around Apple’s perceived monopoly within the iOS ecosystem, making it challenging for users to opt for alternative cloud storage solutions.
It has been 13 years since Apple began offering 5GB of free iCloud storage, a limit that has become increasingly insufficient for users over time. Many US Apple users reportedly opt for additional iCloud storage due to the limitations of the free tier.
Which? asserts that Apple’s dominance in the cloud storage market has restricted competition and hindered consumer choice, leading to the legal claim against the tech giant.
It remains to be seen how the Competition Appeal Tribunal will proceed with the complaint, and whether it will authorize a class action lawsuit against Apple on behalf of eligible UK consumers.