US/UK: Error 53: Apple could now face multiple monopoly lawsuits

As reported earlier, getting your iPhone’s touch id sensor repaired or replaced by a third-party repair service (i.e. a service centre not approved by Apple), could result in the infamous Error 53, which means that your phone is bricked and there’s not a thing that you can do about it.

Following a severe backlash from consumers, several law firms in the US and UK have promised to take the issue to court and are reportedly preparing to file a class action lawsuit against Apple’s “reckless” policy, reports The Guardian.

PCVA, a UK-based law firm has already started accepting claims from various affected users in preparation for a potential class action lawsuit against Apple. They also state that, “We hope to find out why Apple implements a policy where end users aren’t free to choose someone other than Apple to repair their devices. We believe that Apple may be intentionally forcing users to use their repair services, which cost much more than most third party repair shops. Where you could get your screen replaced by a neighbourhood repair facility for $50-80 (Rs.3,000-5,500), Apple charges $129 (Rs.8,800) or more. There is incentive for Apple to keep end users from finding alternative methods to fix their products.”

Full content: India Today

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