Apple is under scrutiny by the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) due to claims that its recent iOS 18 software update has led to various functional issues with iPhones. Consumers reportedly incurred high repair costs for problems such as display malfunctions and microphone failures following the update. The CCPA’s investigation commenced on July 29, 2026, when it was escalated to its investigative division for an in-depth review of the allegations.

The CCPA is examining both the implications of these alleged issues and the company’s warranty terms. Apple maintains that its software is issued without any warranty, prompting questions about consumer rights when customers allegedly face charges related to Apple’s software modifications.

Documents reviewed by Reuters reveal that the CCPA believes there are potential violations of consumer rights, which could lead to imposed penalties on Apple, along with potential refunds or adjustments to its business practices if wrongdoing is established.

Details of the Complaints Against Apple

The complaints surrounding Apple’s iOS 18 update, which began distribution in late 2024, involve reported issues like green, pink, or white lines appearing on screens, as well as microphone dysfunction. Consumers alleged that these problems necessitated costly repairs, despite the issues being linked to the iOS update.

The regulator characterises Apple’s actions as violations affecting consumers collectively, rather than isolated incidents. The estimated cost for repairing an iPhone 15 screen is Rs 27,900, equivalent to $291, which constitutes more than one-third of the retail price of the device.

The CCPA noted that it is unfair for consumers to be charged for issues resulting from the company’s negligence, indicating that such practices contravene principles of fair trade.

Apple Responds to Allegations Regarding iOS 18 Performance

In its formal response to the CCPA on August 20, 2026, Apple refuted the claims, asserting it had not detected any systemic problems or safety risks associated with iOS 18 in India. The company has stated its commitment to collaborating with authorities to clarify its position and actions pertaining to consumer complaints.

Apple has challenged the basis of the investigation, noting that the CCPA’s case was initiated following only 75 complaints, arguing that only around 11 per cent of iPhones were operating on iOS 18 by June 2026. Moreover, the company defended its software warranty terms, asserting that it is standard for software to be offered without any warranty of any sort, while its hardware limited warranty is applicable under different circumstances.

Apple further argued that extensive liability for software issues would impact software developers broadly, comparing its warranty terms to those of other electronics manufacturers, including Sony and Samsung, thereby highlighting industry norms in this arena.

Potential Outcomes of the CCPA’s Investigation

This investigation holds the potential for significant implications, not only in terms of financial penalties but also regarding changes to warranty practices. Consumer law permits authorities to examine documents and conduct hearings prior to delivering a final report. Legal experts suggest that if the investigation points to unfair practices, the CCPA could mandate Apple to provide accurate information to consumers and possibly alter its warranty conditions.

The ongoing inquiry also raises questions about the legitimacy of a no-warranty policy when an update from the manufacturer allegedly leads to device issues. The regulator’s findings will ultimately determine whether Apple’s actions breach consumer protection laws.

This scrutiny of Apple is not unprecedented; it follows similar regulatory actions against the company in various jurisdictions. With Apple’s increasing market share in India, the outcomes of this investigation are critical not only for consumer relations but also for setting precedents regarding software-related consumer rights in the country.

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