Key facts
- India's consumer regulator is investigating Apple's software warranty terms.
- Complaints allege the iOS 18 update damaged iPhone functionality, leading to high repair costs.
- Apple argues its no-warranty clause for software aligns with global industry standards.
- The regulator has escalated the matter for a detailed investigation.
- Apple stated it did not identify any issues or safety concerns with iOS 18 in India.
India's consumer regulator is examining Apple's software warranty terms in an investigation that alleges the iOS 18 update damaged iPhone functionality, compelling users to pay "exorbitant" sums for repairs. The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) received numerous complaints that the iOS 18 rollout led to screen display and microphone malfunctions, among other issues, forcing customers to pay for related repairs as no warranty is provided on software.
Apple is privately contesting the regulator's accusations, stating in an August letter that providing no warranty on software is in line with global industry standards and that iOS 18 had no systemic issues. The company also noted that the CCPA case was based on just 75 complaints and that only about 11% of iPhones used iOS 18 by June 2026. Apple's software license agreements state they are "without warranty of any kind" and users must bear the entire cost of repairs if the software proves defective, with the limited warranty globally only covering hardware.
On July 29, the regulator told Apple it had "escalated" the matter for a "detailed investigation" by its investigation wing, signaling that New Delhi has not been satisfied with Apple's responses. Indian consumer law allows investigators to seek documents and hold hearings before making a final report. The CCPA told Apple that "charging consumers for issues arising from the company's own negligence violates the principle of fair trade."
In a statement, Apple said it did not identify any issues or safety concerns with iOS 18 in India and would work with authorities to provide clarity on the customer response to the software. The investigation covers complaints that green, pink or white lines appeared on users' screens after iOS 18 upgrades, subsequently leading consumers to pay "exorbitant amounts" for repairs and display screen changes.