A class action lawsuit that could entitle 40 million UK iCloud users to a share of £3bn has been given the green light to proceed to trial. The Competition Appeal Tribunal ruled that the case, brought by consumer group Which?, can move forward — paving the way for a long-awaited legal reckoning over Apple’s cloud storage practices.
Which? accuses the tech giant of “trapping” users into its iCloud service, alleging that since 2015 Apple has effectively locked customers in and overcharged them. Under the claim, consumers who used iCloud between November 2018 and June 2026 and were living in the UK on 8 June 2026 could be entitled to roughly £77 each if successful. The total claim is £3bn.
“40 million UK iCloud users could claim £77 each after class action against Apple gets go-ahead.”
Apple has long rejected the accusations, calling them unfounded. In a statement, the company said no customer is required to use iCloud and that many alternatives are available. It “strongly disagrees” with the tribunal’s decision and plans to appeal.
The dispute centres on how Apple restricts rival cloud storage services. Apple gives users a small amount of free storage, but once that runs out it encourages them to pay for iCloud to back up photos, videos, messages and contacts. Prices range from 99p a month for 50GB to £54.99 a month for 12TB. Apple does not give third-party services full access to its devices, arguing this is for security reasons — but Which? says this also means iCloud has more features and locks users in.
Anabel Hoult, Which? chief executive, said the ruling sends a strong message: “No company, no matter how powerful, can get away with abusing its position.” She added that the decision means Which? is “one step closer to getting consumers the redress we believe they are owed from Apple.” The consumer group filed its claim in November 2024.
Consumers are automatically included unless they opt out. Those living in the UK on 8 June 2026 must notify Which? by 8 October 2026 via its claim website to opt out. Non-UK residents on that date must opt in by 8 October if they wish to participate. Anyone who first used iCloud after 8 June 2026 is not included.
The case is not expected to be heard until October 2028, leaving years of legal argument ahead. But for millions of iCloud users, the prospect of compensation — however distant — has suddenly become real.