Millions of individuals who previously bought Apple or Samsung smartphones may be eligible for compensation if a significant legal action taken by Which? against a tech giant succeeds.
The lawsuit focuses on whether Qualcomm possessed market dominance and, if so, whether it misused that position. Qualcomm is a global technology firm that creates and produces wireless communication products, software, and services.
Which? alleges that Qualcomm imposed inflated fees for technology licenses on manufacturers like Apple and Samsung, which it claims would have been transferred to customers through increased prices.
The trial commences today and is set to last for five weeks at the Competition Appeal Tribunal in London. If the initial phase is successful, a second trial will follow, where Which? aims to secure damages estimated at approximately £480 million.
According to Which?, individuals who bought an Apple or Samsung smartphone between October 1, 2015, and January 9, 2024, could potentially be impacted.
If successful, Which? predicts that approximately 29 million consumers would receive about £17 in compensation per phone. The claim would automatically cover buyers of specific models of Apple or Samsung smartphones.
However, it is crucial to note that there is no assurance of compensation at this stage; the case must first prevail in the Competition Appeal Tribunal.
Anabel Hoult, the chief executive of Which?, stated, “This trial signifies a significant moment. It showcases how consumer power, supported by Which?, can be utilized to hold major companies accountable if they misuse their dominant market position.
“Without Which? initiating this claim on behalf of millions of affected UK consumers, it would not be practical for individuals to seek damages from the company individually. This underscores the importance of consumers uniting to claim the compensation they deserve.”
The Mirror has reached out to Qualcomm for their response.
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