Apple Will Pay Out $20 Million to Apple Watch Owners. Who Can File a Claim?

What kind of Apple Watch do you own? Depending on which model you have, you may be eligible for compensation. Thanks to a class-action lawsuit related to battery swelling issues, Apple has agreed to a $20 million settlement to resolve claims that some Apple Watch batteries swelled over time, potentially damaging other key components, such as the display. 

Filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, the lawsuit alleged that the batteries in first-generation, Series 1, Series 2, and Series 3 models could expand within their tight compartments, causing malfunctions. Apple has denied any wrongdoing, but nevertheless chose to settle the case. 

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In a statement sent to CNET, Apple pushed back on the claims, stating the Apple Watch is “designed to be safe and reliable.” 

“This settlement applies to purchasers of Original Apple Watch, Series 1, Series 2 and Series 3, which are no longer available for purchase,” the company said in a statement. “While we strongly disagree with the claims made against these early generation Apple Watch models, we agreed to settle to avoid further litigation.”

Who qualifies for the Apple Watch payout?

To qualify for compensation, users must have owned an affected Apple Watch model in the US and reported issues related to battery swelling, such as filing a complaint with customer service, between April 24, 2015, and Feb. 6, 2024.

How much money could Apple Watch owners get?

Users will find that they receive differing amounts according to a variety of factors. Compensation will range from $20 to $50, depending on the number of claims submitted. Some eligible users will receive a notice via email or postcard informing them of their eligibility for a class payment, according to WatchSettlement.com.

How can Apple Watch owners file a claim?

Users seeking a payout must submit their request by April 10, 2025, through the settlement website.

After visiting the settlement website, users must find the QR code and scan it with an app or built-in camera option. Users can then elect how they’d prefer to receive their payment: physical check, electronic check, ACH transfer, or virtual prepaid Visa or MasterCard. 

For users that did not receive a notice but still believe they’re eliible, a claim may be filed via email. 

By accepting the settlement payment, Apple customers waive their rights to pursue further legal action against Apple regarding the battery issue.