India escalates Apple probe over iOS 18 warranty terms and repair complaints

India’s consumer regulator, the CCPA, has escalated its inquiry into Apple following complaints of iOS 18-related display and microphone issues and costly out-of-warranty repairs. The case could result in fines, customer refunds or mandated changes to Apple’s software warranty terms.

— Source publishedTue, 15 Sept, 2026, 14:50 IST·First seen Tue, 15 Sept, 2026, 14:59 IST·Source ET Small Business

What happened

India's CCPA escalated its probe into Apple over iOS 18-related iPhone malfunctions and software warranty terms. Apple could face fines, refunds or mandated

Key facts

  • 75 complaints
  • 11% of iPhones used iOS 18 by June 2026
  • iPhone market share: 9% last year, versus 4% in 2022
  • Rs 27,900 estimated iPhone 15 screen repair cost
  • $291 estimated repair cost
  • more than one-third of retail price

Why this matters

Electronics retailers and aftermarket service providers may find partnership or acquisition opportunities in compliant repair networks as Apple faces pressure to expand affordable post-sale support in India.