Apple iPhone 7 audio problems $35M class action settlement

Apple agreed to a $35 million settlement to resolve a class action lawsuit claiming its iPhone 7 and 7 Plus smartphone models had defective audio chips, causing audio problems for users.

The settlement benefits consumers who own or owned an Apple iPhone 7 or 7 Plus between Sept. 16, 2016, and Jan. 3, 2023, who reported audio issues to Apple and who may or may not have paid out of pocket for audio repairs.

According to the class action lawsuit, Apple failed to warn consumers that its iPhone 7 and 7 Plus devices were equipped with defective Audio IC chips. These chips allegedly caused audio issues, including complete audio failure.

Apple’s iPhone 7 and 7 Plus were released in 2016 and included many essential audio features such as phone calls, video calls and video playback.

Apple hasn’t admitted wrongdoing but agreed to a $35 million settlement to resolve the iPhone audio class action lawsuit.

Under the terms of the iPhone 7 class action lawsuit settlement, class members who submit a valid claim can receive a payment based on whether they paid Apple out of pocket to repair their devices or if they complained about the issue but did not pay Apple out of pocket for repairs. 

Class members who paid out of pocket for repairs could receive a payment of at least $50 and up to $349. Class members who did not pay Apple for repairs but complained about the issue will receive an equal payment of up to $125.

Class members can choose whether they wish to receive their payments as digital checks, direct deposit or physical checks when completing their claim forms.

No proof of repair is required to file a claim, but Apple’s repair records will be used to validate claims.

The deadline for exclusion and objection is June 3, 2024.

The final approval hearing for the iPhone 7 smartphone audio settlement is scheduled for July 18, 2024.

In order to receive benefits under the iPhone 7 class action lawsuit settlement, class members must submit a valid claim form by June 3, 2024.

Who’s Eligible

Consumers who own or owned an Apple iPhone 7 or 7 Plus between Sept. 16, 2016, and Jan. 3, 2023, who reported audio issues to Apple and may or may not have paid out of pocket for audio repairs.

Potential Award

$349

Proof of Purchase

N/A

Claim Form

NOTE: If you do not qualify for this settlement do NOT file a claim.

Remember: you are submitting your claim under penalty of perjury. You are also harming other eligible Class Members by submitting a fraudulent claim. If you’re unsure if you qualify, please read the FAQ section of the Settlement Administrator’s website to ensure you meet all standards (Top Class Actions is not a Settlement Administrator). If you don’t qualify for this settlement, check out our database of other open class action settlements you may be eligible for.

Claim Form Deadline

06/03/2024

Case Name

Tabak, et al. v. Apple Inc., Case No. 4:19-cv-02455 , in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California

Final Hearing

07/18/2024

Settlement Website

SmartPhoneAudioSettlement.com

Claims Administrator

Tabak v. Apple Class Action Administrator
1650 Arch Street, Suite 2210
Philadelphia, PA19103
833-633-0343

Class Counsel

Andrea Gold
TYCKO & ZAVAREEI LLP

William A Ladnier
MILBERG COLEMAN BRYSON PHILLIPS GROSSMAN PLLC 

Defense Counsel

Alexis Amezcua
MORRISON FOERSTER