Apple has agreed to pay $25 million to settle a class-action lawsuit related to its Family Sharing feature. The lawsuit, initially filed in 2019, claimed that Apple misrepresented the capability of using Family Sharing for sharing subscriptions to apps. Family Sharing is a feature that allows users and their family members to share access to apps, music, movies, TV shows, and books purchased through Apple’s ecosystem.
According to the lawsuit, Apple advertised Family Sharing as an option for apps that, in reality, did not support Family Sharing, particularly subscription-based apps. The court documents state that “the vast majority of subscription-based Apps, which is a growing percentage of Apple Apps, cannot be shared with designated family members.” Despite this, these apps allegedly included statements on their landing pages indicating Family Sharing support until January 30, 2019.
The lawsuit further alleges that Apple was aware of this discrepancy but still promoted Family Sharing on these apps. As a result, millions of consumers may have downloaded subscription-based apps under the impression that they could be shared with family members, only to find out after payment that this was not the case.
In settling the lawsuit, Apple stated that it denies all allegations of wrongdoing and does not acknowledge any fault, liability, or wrongdoing. The company entered into the settlement without admitting fault, citing the burden and expense of continuing to defend the action.
It’s important to note that while this settlement involves a significant monetary payment, it does not imply that Apple has admitted to any wrongdoing in the case. Settlements are often reached to avoid protracted legal battles and the associated costs, and they may include terms that prevent either party from admitting fault.
