Remember the “Battery Gate” scandal that Apple faced back in 2016? They’re having it again.
Years ago, Apple is throttling the performance of select iPhone 6 series models to keep them safe as the battery degrades over time. The problem was, Apple was not open about it and people thought they’re doing it deliberately to push people on upgrading and purchase a new unit.
Apple has since then released an update to show the overall battery health in the settings. If the health percentage drops, then it’s an indication for the users to decide if they want to replace the battery or upgrade the device entirely.
This issue was such a big deal that Apple settles a class-action lawsuit by paying those involved around USD25.
Now, it looks like Apple is facing the same problem. A report reveals that the Consumer Protection Organization in Spain is accusing Apple of throttling its recent iPhone models that include the iPhone 8, iPhone XS, iPhone 11, and iPhone 12.
The group claims that these models were throttled after the iOS 14.5, iOS 14.5.1, and iOS 14.6 updates. They claim that the move has “significantly damaged consumer devices,” “drastically reduced processor speed,” and reduced battery life.
They have already reached Apple asking them to find a way to compensate the affected users. If the response was not favorable to them, they may take the case to a higher court.
Before 2021 ends, select iPhone users will have an option to update to the upcoming iOS 15 or keep using iOS 14 with continued security patches. But if this new throttling issue came from a bug, Apple may push an earlier patch to fix it.