Apple’s MacBook Butterfly Keyboard Settlement⁢ Payments Start Distribution

Payments on Class Action Lawsuit Commence

Payments related to the class action lawsuit initiated ‌in ⁤2018 over the issues with Apple’s butterfly ⁢keyboard ​design are reportedly being dispatched. ⁢According to the settlement website, claim payments⁤ are set to commence in August. Notably, ⁢a recent report by Michael Burkhardt ‍from 9to5Mac confirms that he received two checks as part of this settlement over the⁤ weekend. The amount eligible MacBook users receive will ‍depend largely on the nature of repairs their devices⁣ required, with some‌ potential payouts reaching up to‍ $395.

Background on Issues and Lawsuit

Since⁤ its launch in 2015, Apple’s⁤ butterfly ‍keyboard has faced extensive criticism due to problems‍ such as keys sticking, becoming ⁤unresponsive, and being particularly vulnerable to dust and‌ debris. In response to these complaints, Apple began moving away from this⁤ keyboard design in ⁤2019. The class action suit stated⁢ that Apple was aware of these ⁢defects but failed to inform consumers adequately—an allegation‌ that Apple denied while ⁣also refusing any admission of guilt. However, as part of settling these⁢ claims, they have agreed ‍to allocate $50 ‌million.

Payout Details for ⁤Eligible Users

As outlined on the settlement website, individuals who had two ​or more topcase replacements within four years post-purchase of‌ an affected MacBook‌ can anticipate ‌compensation ranging between $300 and $395. Those receiving only one topcase replacement ⁤may qualify⁣ for up to $125, while users whose repairs involved only keycap replacements will be eligible for ⁣a maximum payout of $50. To receive any ⁣funds from this settlement process, ​eligible participants must have submitted their claims before specified deadlines articulated in the settlement agreement.

In initial​ reports ⁤back in July ‍2022 by Reuters, ⁣it was noted that payouts would be restricted solely to customers who purchased these faulty devices within ⁢certain states—including California, Florida, Illinois, Michigan, New Jersey, New York—and Washington state. For comprehensive information ⁤regarding eligibility and claims processing details ​can be‍ found at the FAQ⁤ section on​ the settlement website.

This article is based on original reporting by Engadget.