Author: Aadarsh Patel | EQMint

Apple is facing increased regulatory scrutiny in India after the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) escalated its investigation into the company’s software warranty terms following complaints linked to the iOS 18 update.

The investigation centres on claims that some iPhone users experienced issues including display and microphone problems after installing iOS 18 and were subsequently required to pay for repairs because Apple’s warranty does not cover software-related faults.

Why Is India Investigating Apple?

The CCPA began examining the issue after receiving consumer complaints alleging that iOS 18-related problems resulted in expensive repair bills.

The regulator escalated the matter in July 2026, with 75 complaints cited in the investigation. The authority is examining whether Apple’s exclusion of software from its warranty terms could conflict with consumer protection requirements when a problem is allegedly caused by an Apple software update.

Apple Defends Its Warranty Policy

Apple has rejected the suggestion that its warranty policy violates consumer protection rules.

In a letter sent to Indian authorities in August, Apple reportedly said its software warranty exclusion is consistent with global industry practices. The company also disputed the claim that iOS 18 has systemic defects.

Apple further pointed out that only around 11% of iPhones in India were running iOS 18 by June 2026, according to Reuters.

What Could Happen to iPhone Users?

The outcome of the investigation could have implications for consumers who paid for repairs after experiencing problems allegedly linked to iOS 18.

If the regulator determines that Apple’s practices violated consumer protection rules, possible measures could include refunds, penalties or changes to the company’s practices, depending on the findings and applicable regulations.

However, the investigation is ongoing, and no final determination has been made that Apple violated Indian consumer protection law.

Why the Case Matters

The investigation comes as Apple continues to expand its presence in India, both as a smartphone market and as a major manufacturing base.

The case could also bring greater attention to how software-related defects are treated under device warranties, particularly as smartphones increasingly depend on operating-system updates for core functions.

For affected consumers, the regulator’s investigation could determine whether repair costs connected to alleged software-related failures should have been covered differently.

Apple iOS 18 Warranty Probe: Key Points

• Regulator: Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA)
• Company: Apple
• Issue: Software warranty terms and iOS 18-related complaints
• Complaints cited: 75
• Reported issues: Display and microphone problems
• Apple’s position: Its software warranty exclusion follows global practices
• Investigation status: Ongoing
• Potential outcomes: Refunds, penalties or changes to business practices, depending on the findings

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