Apple’s software warranty terms have come under regulatory scrutiny in India following complaints about display and microphone problems allegedly linked to the iOS 18 update. The consumer protection regulator is examining whether some users were unfairly asked to pay for repairs when the reported issues may have been connected to the software update.
The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has escalated its investigation into Apple’s software warranty terms, according to documents reviewed by a news agency. The regulator reportedly received complaints alleging that iOS 18 caused display and microphone malfunctions on some iPhone models.
Some complaints involved green, pink or white lines appearing on iPhone displays after the update. The CCPA alleged that affected users were later required to pay for repairs and display replacements despite claims that the problems were linked to the software rollout.
On July 29, the CCPA reportedly informed Apple that the matter had been moved to its investigation wing for a “detailed investigation”. The notice referred to alleged violations of consumer rights.
Apple has disputed the allegations. The company said it had not identified any issues or safety concerns with iOS 18 in India and was willing to work with authorities to explain how it had responded to customers.
The regulator is also examining Apple’s software licence and warranty conditions. Apple’s software licence states that its software is provided “without warranty of any kind”, while its limited warranty generally covers hardware rather than software.
In a response dated August 20, Apple reportedly argued that such no-warranty provisions are common and that users are informed about the terms before installing software. It also cited similar approaches followed by electronics manufacturers including Sony and Samsung.
Apple said iOS 18 underwent stringent testing. It argued that treating every software issue as a breach of an absolute warranty could make software providers responsible for all technological risks linked to their products.
The CCPA, however, has treated the matter as an issue affecting consumers as a class rather than a set of individual complaints. The regulator’s case is reportedly based on 75 complaints.
Apple said only around 11% of iPhones were still running iOS 18 by June 2026.
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