Federal Court Approves $20 Million Class Settlement Against Apple Over Defective Apple Watch Screens
Chris Smith, et al. v. Apple, Inc. (United States District Court for the Northern District of California, Case No. 4:21-cv-09527-HSG)
Attorneys from Cunningham Bounds served as lead counsel in a nationwide class action lawsuit against Apple, Inc., alleging that a defect in early model Apple Watches caused screens to detach, crack, or shatter—posing serious safety risks to users.
The lawsuit focused on First Generation, Series 1, Series 2, and Series 3 Apple Watches, claiming that the devices were manufactured with insufficient internal space to accommodate battery swelling. According to the Complaint, Apple failed to incorporate safeguards to prevent the lithium cobalt oxide battery from pressing against the display face, a defect that could lead to operational failure and injuries from exposed, razor-sharp glass.
Plaintiffs further alleged that Apple knew about the issue but did not disclose the risk to consumers. Reports submitted in the case detailed instances of unexpected screen detachment and resulting injuries, including cuts and lacerations.
On April 10, 2025, the United States District Court approved a $20,000,000 class action settlement. The agreement provides compensation to affected consumers nationwide who experienced device failure or physical harm as a result of the alleged defect.
Cunningham Bounds remains committed to holding corporations accountable for putting consumer safety at risk and ensuring that companies take responsibility for the products they put into the marketplace.