New Delhi: Apple is facing increased regulatory scrutiny in India over complaints linked to its iOS 18 software update and warranty policy.
The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has reportedly transferred the matter to its investigation wing for a detailed examination. The move follows complaints from iPhone users who claimed that problems emerged after installing iOS 18, including display issues and microphone-related faults.
The case could become significant for Apple as India continues to grow as an important market for the company.
CCPA examines complaints against Apple
The complaints being examined by the consumer regulator relate to Apple’s handling of alleged problems following the rollout of iOS 18, which began in late 2024.
Some users have reportedly complained about green, pink or white lines appearing on iPhone displays, along with microphone problems.
According to the allegations submitted to the regulator, some customers were subsequently asked to pay substantial amounts for repairs or screen replacements even though they believed the problems were connected to the software update.
One example cited in the investigation involves an iPhone 15 display replacement, which can cost around ₹27,900. That amount represents a significant portion of the device’s original retail price.
The CCPA is examining whether Apple’s software warranty terms and its approach to these complaints could amount to a violation of consumer rights.
Apple denies a widespread iOS 18 problem
Apple has rejected the allegations and maintains that its software warranty policy is consistent with common industry practices.
In its response to investigators, the company said it had not identified any systemic issue or safety concern with iOS 18 in India.
Apple also argued that its software licence terms clearly inform users that the software is supplied without a conventional warranty. According to the company, consumers accept these terms before installing the operating system.
At the same time, Apple said its hardware warranty remains applicable globally under its existing limited warranty conditions.
The company has also indicated that it is willing to cooperate with Indian authorities and provide clarification regarding how it handles software-related complaints.
Apple compares its policy with other companies
Apple has argued that software provided without a warranty is not unusual in the technology industry.
The company reportedly pointed to practices followed by other electronics manufacturers, including Sony and Samsung, while defending its position.
Apple has also warned that treating every software problem as a warranty violation could create a much broader liability for software developers.
According to the company’s argument, such a policy could effectively require technology companies to assume financial responsibility for every potential technological problem that users experience after a software update.
What could happen if Apple is found responsible?
The CCPA’s investigation is still ongoing, and no final finding has been announced.
If investigators conclude that Apple’s practices amount to an unfair trade practice or violate consumer protection rules, the company could potentially face financial penalties, refund-related directions or requirements to modify certain business practices.
Consumer-law experts say investigators can seek relevant documents, examine evidence and conduct hearings before submitting their findings to the regulator.
A decision affecting Apple’s warranty terms could also have consequences beyond this particular dispute.
Why the case matters for India’s technology market
The investigation comes as Apple continues to expand its presence in India.
The country has become increasingly important to Apple not only as a consumer market but also as part of its manufacturing and supply-chain strategy.
According to Counterpoint Research data cited in reports, Apple’s share of India’s smartphone market reached around 9% last year, compared with about 4% in 2022.
Any regulatory action involving software warranties could therefore attract attention across the wider technology sector.
For consumers, the case could also influence how technology companies deal with problems that appear after major software updates, particularly when customers face expensive hardware repairs.
For now, the CCPA investigation remains underway, and Apple continues to maintain that iOS 18 did not create a systemic problem in India.
