Apple has been fined $6.6 million (AUS$9 million) in Australia for bricked iOS devices. The fine has been levied against Apple by the ACCC (Australian Competition and Consumer Commission).
The fine is for complaints from iOS device owners who had their device bricked with ‘error 53’ when a software update was installed on their device.
The Error 53 Issue
The problem took place between February 2015 and February 2016, when people’s devices became bricked. This happened to around 275 Australian customers who were not eligible to get their device fixed by Apple because it had been repaired by a third party. Error 53 was a security measure that Apple had implemented to ensure the integrity of the Touch ID fingerprint sensor. If the sensor was replaced by an unauthorized repair shop, the device would detect the change and become inoperable, displaying the infamous ‘error 53’ message.
This measure was intended to protect users from potential security risks, but it inadvertently caused significant inconvenience and financial loss for many customers. The issue gained widespread attention, leading to numerous complaints and legal actions against Apple.
“If a product is faulty, customers are legally entitled to a repair or a replacement under the Australian Consumer Law, and sometimes even a refund. Apple’s representations led customers to believe they’d be denied a remedy for their faulty device because they used a third party repairer,” said ACCC commissioner Sarah Court in a statement.
Apple’s Response and Legal Implications
Apple has apparently now agreed to fix these devices for people in Australia according to the ACCC, there is no official statement from Apple as yet. This decision marks a significant shift in Apple’s approach to third-party repairs and consumer rights. The company has faced criticism in the past for its strict repair policies, which many argue limit consumer choice and contribute to electronic waste.
The fine and subsequent agreement to repair affected devices highlight the importance of consumer protection laws and the role of regulatory bodies like the ACCC in enforcing these laws. It also underscores the need for companies to be transparent and fair in their dealings with customers, particularly when it comes to issues of product repair and warranty.
In recent years, there has been a growing movement advocating for the ‘Right to Repair,’ which seeks to give consumers more control over their devices and the ability to repair them without voiding warranties or facing other penalties. This case serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges and debates surrounding this issue.
Moreover, the incident has prompted Apple to reconsider its policies and improve its customer service practices. The company has since introduced more flexible repair options and has worked to ensure that customers are better informed about their rights and options when it comes to device repairs.
Source TechCrunch
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