A California appeals court has revived a 2022 lawsuit accusing Apple of discouraging customers from using third-party repair services to fix cracked iPhone screens. The decision returns a legal challenge over the company’s historical repair practices to active proceedings.
Court Reverses Earlier Dismissal
A filing lodged with the Court of Appeal for the State of California in August set out how a panel reversed a lower court’s decision to quash the lawsuit. The three-judge Sixth Appellate District panel has brought the case back to life, allowing the claims against Apple to proceed once more.
The lawsuit centres on allegations that Apple persuaded customers not to turn to independent repair providers when addressing broken iPhone displays. The original claim was filed in 2022, and the recent ruling means the matter can now be examined further rather than being closed at an early stage.
Apple’s Shifting Stance on Repairs
In recent years, Apple has become more open to allowing repairs of its hardware to be carried out beyond its own support network. The company’s position on independent repairs has relaxed considerably compared with its earlier approach.
Despite this shift, Apple continues to contend with the consequences of policies established in previous years. The revived lawsuit highlights how earlier repair rules remain subject to legal scrutiny even as the company’s current practices have changed.
The case will now return to the courts following the appeal panel’s decision to reinstate it.
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Image: appleinsider.com
