Weeks after its admission that it purposely slowed down older iPhones, Apple is reportedly facing scrutiny by the U.S. Department of Justice and the Securities and Exchange Commission. Both entities are investigating whether the tech giant ran afoul of securities laws by throttling its devices, according to Bloomberg.
While it’s too early to tell whether Apple is in big trouble, safe to say the inquiries point to serious questions over whether the Cupertino, California-based company deceived investors as well as consumers.
Report: Dual federal probes looking into Apple’s iPhone slowdown
“We have received questions from some government agencies and we are responding to them,” an Apple spokeswoman told Bloomberg.
Apple came clean last month about the reason many older iPhones — especially the 6, 6S, SE and 7 models — seemed to perform differently after a newer version was released. The company said that it used updates to slow down the older devices’ battery performance as a way to prolong their lives and prevent “sudden” shutdowns.
The backlash was instant, with multiple lawsuits popping up across the world. Apple apologized and slashed battery prices, but by then the damage was done. “BatteryGate” as the controversy is being called, has seemingly forced the hand of Apple CEO Tim Cook. He has made more publicity appearances of late and seems intent on taking one for the team.
Shortly after the controversy came to a head and people began to accuse the company of not being forthright, he told ABC News that the customers just weren’t “paying attention” when they announced the battery issue. “Maybe we weren’t clear,” he said. “We deeply apologize for anyone who thinks we have some other kind of motivation.”
As a fix to the problem, Cook said that in early 2018 (likely February), the company will release an update that will give users the ability to turn off the throttling feature, although it is not recommended. “We’re going to give people the visibility of the health of their battery so it’s very, very transparent,” he told ABC. “This hasn’t been done before.”
Many Apple customers have reported trouble with trying to take advantage of Apple’s $50 discount on iPhone battery replacement. Here’s what to know before you set out to get yours done.
The most important thing when scheduling an appointment with Apple
Apple’s retail stores are usually packed with people in various states of distress about their expensive devices. Before you just pop up inside your nearest Genius Bar and be subjected to an ungodly wait time, here’s what you need to know:
- The best way to get the pertinent help you need is to call to reserve an appointment — click hear to find the nearest Apple store
- Also, you may not even need an in-person visit depending on your issue. Chat online with a representative
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