CCPA Intensifies Scrutiny of Apple Over iOS 18 Complaints
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Khushi Jain
- September 15, 2026
The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has reportedly intensified its scrutiny of Apple’s software warranty terms as part of a broader investigation into issues linked to the company’s iOS 18 update.
The investigation follows allegations that the iOS 18 update affected iPhone functionality and compelled users to pay “exorbitant” sums for repairs.
According to documents accessed by Reuters, the CCPA told Apple in June that it had “escalated” the matter for a “detailed investigation” by its investigation wing. Apple has responded to the regulator’s investigation.
In a statement sent to Inc42, Apple said it primarily sells hardware, while software is something that goes along with the device. The company said that no technology company, including Apple, across the globe offers a warranty on software.
Apple also said it closely monitors user feedback after every software update and did not identify any issues, safety concerns or similar trends related to the launch of iOS 18 in India.
The iPhone maker added that it is open to working with local authorities to provide clarity on customer responses to iOS 18.
CCPA Investigation Follows Complaints Over iOS 18
The development comes over a year after the CCPA issued a notice to Apple following multiple complaints regarding performance issues on iPhones after the iOS 18 software update.
The watchdog’s latest action has brought Apple’s software warranty terms under further scrutiny as part of its investigation into the complaints.
Apple Faces Other Regulatory Scrutiny in India
This is not the first time Apple has come under the radar of Indian authorities.
The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has already found Apple guilty of abusing its dominant position in the app store market.
Apple is contesting the matter and has accused the CCI of “copy-pasting” allegations made by rival companies instead of conducting an independent probe into its App Store practices.
Apple Rolls Out iOS 27 Amid iOS 18 Scrutiny
While dealing with issues related to the iOS 18 software update, Apple began rolling out iOS 27 yesterday, which comes with Siri AI.
Critics have flagged that the new AI features are only available on Apple’s premium, higher-end devices, creating a two-tier model for its iPhone users.
Apple Continues to Expand in India
Despite the regulatory scrutiny, Apple continues to double down on India.
Earlier this month, the company launched its first foldable smartphone, called iPhone Duo, which will be available in India at a starting price of ₹3 Lakh for a 256 GB model. It also unveiled its new iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max models.
The launches came as Apple clocked record revenue in the June 2026 quarter in India. At the time, Apple CFO Kevan Parekh said India delivered strong double-digit revenue growth during the quarter, with Mac emerging as one of the standout performers.
India also continues to be a major manufacturing hub for Apple. The company has significantly expanded local iPhone production over the years, with iPhone exports from India crossing the ₹2 Lakh Cr mark in FY26.
FAQs
1. What is the CCPA investigating Apple for?
The CCPA is investigating issues linked to Apple’s iOS 18 update and its software warranty terms following complaints about iPhone performance.
2. What did Apple say about software warranties?
Apple said it primarily sells hardware and that no technology company, including Apple, across the globe offers a warranty on software.
3. When did the CCPA escalate the matter for investigation?
According to documents accessed by Reuters, the CCPA told Apple in June that it had escalated the matter for a detailed investigation by its investigation wing.
4. What other regulatory issue is Apple facing in India?
The Competition Commission of India has found Apple guilty of abusing its dominant position in the app store market.
5. What is Apple’s starting price for the iPhone Duo in India?
The iPhone Duo will be available in India at a starting price of ₹3 Lakh for a 256 GB model.
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