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Apple is facing increased regulatory scrutiny in India after the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) stepped up its investigation into complaints linked to Apple’s iOS 18 software update. The complaints allege that the update caused technical problems in some iPhones, including display and microphone malfunctions, leaving affected consumers with potentially expensive repair bills.
The investigation, which began after the regulator sought an explanation from Apple last year, has now been referred for a more detailed inquiry by the CCPA’s investigation wing. The development highlights growing concerns over the responsibilities of technology companies when software updates allegedly affect the functioning of consumer devices.
Complaints Reported After iOS 18 Update
Apple rolled out iOS 18 in late 2024. Following the update, several iPhone users reportedly complained of technical issues, including screen display problems and microphone failures. Some complaints alleged that devices developed green, pink or white lines on their screens, while others reported problems with basic hardware functions after installing the software.
According to documents reviewed by Reuters, the CCPA has received 75 complaints connected to the matter. The regulator is examining whether the reported problems were caused by the software update and whether consumers were adequately protected when seeking repairs.
The complaints have raised questions about Apple’s software warranty policy. While Apple’s limited warranty generally covers hardware defects, its software licence terms state that software is provided without a warranty of any kind. Consumers who believe a software update damaged their devices argue that they should not be required to bear the entire cost of repairs for problems allegedly caused by the manufacturer.
CCPA Questions Apple’s Warranty Policy
The central issue before the regulator is whether Apple’s exclusion of software-related defects from its warranty obligations is consistent with India’s consumer protection laws when a company-issued update is alleged to have caused device malfunctions.
The CCPA had earlier asked Apple to provide information about the reported technical problems, when they began and what steps the company took to resolve them. With complaints continuing nearly a year after the initial notice, the authority has now intensified the investigation.
Under India’s consumer protection framework, regulators can seek documents, examine business practices and hear representations from companies before reaching a final conclusion. If an unfair trade practice or violation of consumer rights is established, authorities may direct corrective measures or recommend other action under the law.
Apple’s Response to the Allegations
Apple has disputed the concerns raised by the regulator. In a letter sent in August 2026, the company reportedly argued that its policy of excluding software from warranty coverage is consistent with global industry standards.
Apple also maintained that iOS 18 does not have systemic defects. The company pointed out that only around 11 per cent of iPhones were still using iOS 18 by June 2026, suggesting that the number of complaints should be considered in relation to the overall number of devices running the software.
The company has not accepted that the reported hardware problems were caused by iOS 18. The investigation will therefore have to examine whether there is a direct connection between the update and the alleged malfunctions, rather than relying solely on the timing of consumer complaints.
What Action Could Apple Face?
The CCPA’s investigation is still ongoing, and no final finding has been made against Apple. However, if the regulator concludes that the company’s warranty terms or handling of software-related defects violate consumer rights, Apple could face financial penalties or directions to change certain business practices.
Potential remedies could include compensation or refunds for eligible consumers, clearer disclosure of software-related risks and changes to warranty conditions. Any such action would depend on the findings of the investigation and the applicable provisions of Indian consumer law.
Legal experts cited in reports have noted that the case could have wider implications because software is increasingly central to the functioning of smartphones and other electronic products. A software update can alter the performance of hardware that consumers have already purchased, raising difficult questions about responsibility when problems emerge after installation.
Wider Implications for India’s Technology Market
The case comes as Apple continues to expand its presence in India, including manufacturing and sales operations. India has become an increasingly important market for the company, making regulatory developments there significant for its long-term business strategy.
The investigation also reflects broader scrutiny of global technology companies over consumer rights, repair costs, warranty conditions and transparency. Smartphones are no longer simple standalone products; their performance depends heavily on operating systems, security updates and ongoing software support.
For consumers, the dispute could influence expectations about what manufacturers should disclose before releasing major updates and how they should respond when an update allegedly causes problems.
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A Closely Watched Consumer Protection Case
The CCPA’s decision to intensify its probe does not establish that Apple violated Indian law. The regulator must still determine whether the complaints demonstrate a widespread or identifiable problem, whether iOS 18 caused the reported damage and whether Apple’s warranty terms unfairly shifted responsibility onto consumers.
The outcome will be closely watched by smartphone users, manufacturers and consumer rights groups. As software becomes an essential part of modern products, the case could contribute to an evolving debate over whether companies should bear greater responsibility for the consequences of updates issued after a device has been sold.
For Apple, the investigation adds another layer of regulatory attention in one of its fastest-growing markets. For Indian consumers, it raises an important question about who should pay when a company-issued software update is alleged to leave an expensive device malfunctioning.
