Apple started notifying owners about this
Last year, Apple agreed to pay $35 million to settle a US class action lawsuit alleging that the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus had audio problems due to a faulty chip, and has now begun notifying affected customers by email.
U.S. residents who owned an iPhone 7 or iPhone 7 Plus between September 16, 2016 and January 3, 2023 and reported audio problems covered by the settlement to Apple and/or paid Apple funds for repair or replacement of iPhone due to described sound problems.
Those who did not receive notice but believe they are eligible to file a claim should email [email protected]. Deadline to select a payment method, object to the settlement, or refuse — June 3. Under the proposed settlement, which requires California court approval on July 18, those who paid Apple for repairs could receive up to $349, while others — up to 125 dollars.
In 2019, Apple was sued over this issue in multiple US states, with complaints alleging that the company violated consumer protection and warranty laws. Despite agreeing to the settlement, Apple denies any wrongdoing, and the court hearing the class action did not rule in favor of Apple or the plaintiffs.
However, Apple has admitted that a microphone issue is affecting some iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus models. The microphone does not work on them and the speakerphone button is inactive during calls. Other users cannot hear them during cellular or FaceTime calls.