Millions of individuals who previously bought Apple or Samsung smartphones may be eligible for compensation if a key legal challenge by Which? against a major tech company succeeds.
The lawsuit revolves around whether Qualcomm possessed market dominance and, if so, whether it misused that power. Qualcomm is a global technology firm that creates and produces wireless communication products, software, and services.
Which? alleges that Qualcomm imposed excessive fees for technology licenses on manufacturers like Apple and Samsung, which it asserts would have been passed on to consumers through elevated prices.
The trial commences today and is set to last for five weeks at the Competition Appeal Tribunal in London. If the initial phase proves successful, a subsequent trial will follow where Which? will pursue damages approximated at £480 million.
Which? states that individuals who bought an Apple or Samsung smartphone between October 1, 2015, and January 9, 2024, could potentially be impacted.
If successful, the consumer advocacy group estimates that around 29 million people could receive approximately £17 in compensation per phone. The claim would automatically cover consumers who purchased specific models of Apple or Samsung smartphones.
However, it is important to note that there is no guarantee of compensation at this stage – the case must first succeed in the Competition Appeal Tribunal.
Anabel Hoult, the chief executive of Which?, remarked, “This trial marks a significant moment. It demonstrates how consumer power, supported by Which?, can be utilized to hold large companies accountable if they misuse their dominant position.
“Without Which? pursuing this claim on behalf of millions of affected UK consumers, it would not be feasible for individuals to seek damages from the company individually – highlighting the importance of consumers coming together to seek the restitution they deserve.”
The Mirror has reached out to Qualcomm for their response.
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