Apple is expected to resolve its pending class action regarding the failed system of its Powerbeats 2 and 3 earphones. According to a Tech Times report, three years ago, a group of device owners, led by California plaintiffs Latanya Simmons and Kevin Tobin, filed a lawsuit against Apple for alleged false advertising. Both Powerbeats 2 and Powerbeats 3 models reportedly contain design defects that cause the devices to stop retaining a charge.
What This Means for Customers
Then, after a short amount of time, users alleged that the device failed to charge or even turn on. Apple said they had no liability in this matter. However, the class-action lawsuit changed that situation. Both parties reached a $9.75 million settlement agreement signed by Apple on Aug. 7. This means everyone who was signed up for the class-action lawsuit is entitled to receive their payout from the company.
Anyone who bought the device before Aug. 7 will be able to get a share of the payout. Claimants are entitled to a maximum payout of $189. This will be multiplied by the number of valid proofs of purchase submitted by each customer. If you are unable to present proof of purchase, you can still get up to $38. Meanwhile, customers who have proof of purchase or a warranty repair can receive up to $76. Customers have until Nov. 20 in order to claim their shares on the lawsuit.
Remedy Provided by Class Actions
This settlement is an example of how class action lawsuits work to make consumers whole especially when a large corporation has engaged in unethical or illegal practices. While individual consumers may not have the money or resources to go after a large corporation such as Apple, when consumers band together in a class-action lawsuit, they have the power to hold the corporation accountable and make it pay for the losses it has caused, as seen with Apple’s iPhone slowdown settlement.
A class-action lawsuit is often the last resort for consumers who have lost money on a defective product, which in this case appears to be Apple earphones. If you have suffered monetary losses because of defective products, you may be able to file a class-action lawsuit against the manufacturer. An experienced California class action lawyer can help you better understand your legal rights and options.
Source: https://www.techtimes.com/articles/252108/20200828/apple-paying-189-each-powerbeats-2-3-owner-thanks-class.htm
Brian Chase
Articles, blogs, and content have been reviewed by our legal in-house staff prior to publishing. Brian Chase is the managing partner of Bisnar Chase Personal Injury Attorneys, LLP. He is the lead trial lawyer and oversees cases handling dangerous and defective products that injure consumers. Brian is a top-rated injury attorney with numerous legal honors and awards for his work relating to auto defects and dangerous products. His firm has recovered over $1B for its clients. Brian is a frequent speaker for CAOC, Dordick Trial College, and OCTLA, covering personal injury trial techniques.