Apple Held Accountable For Subpar Service By Local Indian Court After iPhone User Told Device Out Of Warranty

This story was first published on the Benzinga India portal.

In a recent ruling, a local consumer disputes resolution court in Northern India held Apple Inc's AAPL India unit accountable for deficient service.

What Happened? The case revolved around an iPhone, bought in Saudi Arabia and later given as a gift to Pankaj, the complainant. Shortly after receiving the gift, Pankaj noticed network and camera malfunctions. When he sought repairs, Apple’s service centers cited internal damage, suggesting the device was out of warranty and implying potential tampering, according to livelaw.com, an Indian portal.

Apple’s defense hinged on the claim that the iPhone had been tampered with before repair, which would void the warranty. They offered an out-of-warranty repair, which Pankaj declined.

See also: iPhone 15 Likely To Hit Store Shelves In India Along With The World This Month

However, the Commission, after examining the evidence, found inconsistencies in Apple’s stance.

Notably, a service report failed to mention any unauthorized modifications when the device was first submitted. Pankaj asserted he hadn’t altered the device, Apple couldn’t provide counterproof.

The verdict? Apple must replace Pankaj’s iPhone and compensate him ₹10,000 (USD 120), plus cover ₹15,000 ($180) in litigation expenses. This case underscores the importance of consumer rights and the scrutiny even tech giants like Apple can face when service falls short.

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