Apple: Difference between revisions

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|Type=Public

|Website=https://apple.com/

|Description=Tech company known for hardware, software, and operating systems. Has repeatedly restricted device repairs and ~~ability for users to downgrade their OS~~

|Description=Tech company known for hardware, software, and operating systems. Has repeatedly restricted device repairs, and exerts strict control over its software ecosystem

|CompanyAlias= Apple, Inc

}}

{{Wplink|Apple Inc.|'''Apple'''}} is an American technology company that was founded in 1976 by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak and Ronald Wayne. It is best known for its consumer electronics, software, and services.

Apple's current product lineup ~~includes~~ hardware such as the [[:Category:~~Apple IPhones~~|iPhone]], iPad, Apple Watch, Mac, Apple Vision Pro, [[~~Airpods|~~AirPods]], and Apple TV; operating systems such as iOS, iPadOS, visionOS, and macOS; and various software and services including Apple Pay, iCloud, Apple Arcade, and multimedia streaming services like Apple Music and [[Apple TV+]].

Apple's current product lineup include iPhones hardware such as the [[:Category:iPhone|iPhone]], iPad, Apple Watch, Mac, Apple Vision Pro, [[AirPods]], and Apple TV; operating systems such as iOS, iPadOS, visionOS, and macOS; and various software and services including Apple Pay, iCloud, Apple Arcade, and multimedia streaming services like Apple Music and [[Apple TV+]].

==Incidents==

This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===Repairability of Apple products in the 2000s===

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*2016-2019 MacBooks butterfly keyboards<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bohn |first=Dieter |date=2020-05-04 |title=The saga of Apple’s bad butterfly MacBook keyboards is finally over |url=https://www.theverge.com/2020/5/4/21246223/macbook-keyboard-butterfly-magic-pro-apple-design |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260128222108/https://www.theverge.com/2020/5/4/21246223/macbook-keyboard-butterfly-magic-pro-apple-design |archive-date=2026-01-28 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=The Verge}}</ref>

*the 2019 16-inch MacBook Pro's SSD failures<ref>{{Cite web |last=digilloyd |date=2020-04-03 |title=2019 MacBook Pro Seems to Have a High Failure Rate |url=https://macperformanceguide.com/blog/2020/20200403_1024-MacBookPro2019-repairs.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250708181056/https://macperformanceguide.com/blog/2020/20200403_1024-MacBookPro2019-repairs.html |archive-date=2025-07-08 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=Mac Performance Guide}}</ref>

*The announcement and cancellation of Apple AirPower<ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple cancels AirPower product, citing inability to meet its high standards for hardware |url=https://techcrunch.com/2019/03/29/apple-cancels-airpower-product-citing-inability-to-meet-its-high-standards-for-hardware/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190401040644/https://techcrunch.com/2019/03/29/apple-cancels-airpower-product-citing-inability-to-meet-its-high-standards-for-hardware/ |archive-date=2019-04-01 |website=TechCrunch}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Clover |first=Juli |date=2018-09-12 |title=After No Sign of AirPower at Today's Event Apple Wipes Most Mentions From Website |url=https://www.macrumors.com/2018/09/12/no-sign-of-airpower-at-september-event/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211124170507/https://www.macrumors.com/2018/09/12/no-sign-of-airpower-at-september-event/ |archive-date=2021-11-24 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=MacRumors}}</ref> due to overheating{{CitationNeeded|reason=no archived article mentioning overheating specifically}}

*The announcement and cancellation of Apple AirPower<ref>{{Cite web |last=Panzarino |first=Matthew |title=Apple cancels AirPower product, citing inability to meet its high standards for hardware |url=https://techcrunch.com/2019/03/29/apple-cancels-airpower-product-citing-inability-to-meet-its-high-standards-for-hardware/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190401040644/https://techcrunch.com/2019/03/29/apple-cancels-airpower-product-citing-inability-to-meet-its-high-standards-for-hardware/ |archive-date=2019-04-01 |website=TechCrunch}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Clover |first=Juli |date=2018-09-12 |title=After No Sign of AirPower at Today's Event Apple Wipes Most Mentions From Website |url=https://www.macrumors.com/2018/09/12/no-sign-of-airpower-at-september-event/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211124170507/https://www.macrumors.com/2018/09/12/no-sign-of-airpower-at-september-event/ |archive-date=2021-11-24 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=MacRumors}}</ref> due to overheating{{CitationNeeded|reason=no archived article mentioning overheating specifically}}

====Recent attempts to do better====

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This includes:

*Opening an online [[Apple Self Service Repair|Self Service Repair]] parts store.

*Opening an online [[Apple Self Service Repair|Self Service Repair]] parts store.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-11-17 |title=Apple announces Self Service Repair |url=https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2021/11/apple-announces-self-service-repair/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260203201914/https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2021/11/apple-announces-self-service-repair/ |archive-date=2026-02-03 |access-date=2026-03-08 |website=Apple Newsroom}}</ref>

*Making the back glass of iPhones removable starting from iPhone 14.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wiens |first=Kyle |date=2022-09-16 |title=Inside Apple’s Secret iPhone 14 Redesign |url=https://www.ifixit.com/News/64865/iphone-14-teardown |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260116032657/https://www.ifixit.com/News/64865/iphone-14-teardown |archive-date=2026-01-16 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=iFixIt}}</ref>

*Allowing alternative app stores in an update to iOS 17, in compliance with new EU legislation.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Installing apps through alternative app distribution in the European Union |url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/117767 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251223191001/https://support.apple.com/en-us/117767 |archive-date=2025-12-23 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=support.apple.com}}</ref>

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*An upgradeable, swappable SSD in the 2024 Mac Mini - albeit you cannot swap these units between M4 and M4 Pro units due to the internal casing's design being different without much good reason.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sorrel |first=Charlie |date=2024-11-12 |title=All Hail the Return of Upgradeable Storage! Mac mini 2024 Teardown |url=https://www.ifixit.com/News/104302/all-hail-the-return-of-upgradeable-storage-mac-mini-2024-teardown |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251116041530/https://www.ifixit.com/News/104302/all-hail-the-return-of-upgradeable-storage-mac-mini-2024-teardown |archive-date=2025-11-16 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=iFixit}}</ref>

*A battery removable with just a 9V battery in the 2024 iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus.<ref>{{Cite web |title=iPhone 16 Plus Battery |url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/120671 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251018203540/https://support.apple.com/en-us/120671 |archive-date=2025-10-18 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=support.apple.com}}</ref>

Many of these items have sparked allegations of [[~~Malicious Compliance~~]] and being introduced purely to make stricter right for repair legislation appear unnecessary to legislators while not doing much to improve the situation for consumers.

Many of these items have sparked allegations of [[malicious compliance]] and being introduced purely to make stricter right for repair legislation appear unnecessary to legislators while not doing much to improve the situation for consumers.

For instance, pricing for parts on the [[Apple Self Service Repair|Self Service Repair]] store is virtually identical to having the part replaced by Apple themselves (including both the price of the part and labor), alternate app installation options are limited to users in the EU, still require developers to be registered with Apple, have them approve the apps and in many cases paying them fees, and the upgradeable SSDs do not use common standards such as M.2 NVME. Unlike standard SSDs, they are also not always swappable between different models and require access to a second Apple computer to provision after installation.

For instance, pricing for parts on the [[Apple Self Service Repair|Self Service Repair]] store is virtually identical to having the part replaced by Apple themselves (including both the price of the part and labor)<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ganapini |first=Cristina |date=2022-12-06 |title=Apple’s self-repair programme is not the Right to Repair we need |url=https://repair.eu/news/apples-self-repair-programme-is-not-the-right-to-repair-we-need/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260209051628/https://repair.eu/news/apples-self-repair-programme-is-not-the-right-to-repair-we-need/ |archive-date=2026-02-09 |access-date=2026-03-08 |website=Right to Repair Europe}}</ref>, alternate app installation options are limited to users in the EU, still [[Forced account|require developers to be registered]] with Apple, have them approve the apps and in many cases paying them fees, and the upgradeable SSDs do not use common standards such as M.2 NVME. Unlike standard SSDs, they are also not always swappable between different models and require access to a second Apple computer to provision after installation.

===Operating system downgrades===

[[File:Macos startup security.png|alt=macOS startup security screen|thumb|macOS startup security screen]]

It is not possible to upgrade or downgrade an iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, etc. to an Operating System (OS) version that is no longer signed by Apple. In most cases, only the most recent version is signed. Some exceptions exist, such as certain Apple TV models and Apple Silicon Macs. Downgrading the Apple TV 4K series is not possible at all due to the lack of a USB port. On Macs with a T2 chip, the user can select from three modes of secure boot:<ref>{{Cite web |title=About Startup Security Utility on a Mac with the Apple T2 Security Chip |url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/102522 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250607083624/https://support.apple.com/en-us/102522 |archive-date=7 Jun 2025 |access-date=22 Jun 2025 |website=Apple}}</ref>

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===Parts availability===

Many parts are not available directly from Apple. Those that are available directly from Apple may be more expensive than paying Apple to repair your device. Parts available to certified repair centers are extremely limited. Apple does not stock current generation iPad parts within GSX (See Certified Repair Centers). A limited selection of iPad parts are available from iFixit, however this can exclude some flex PCBs necessary for repairing headphone jacks.

Many parts are not available directly from Apple. Those that are available directly from Apple may be more expensive than paying Apple to repair your device.{{CitationNeeded|reason=add citation with proof of this}} Parts available to certified repair centers are extremely limited.{{CitationNeeded|reason=proof if possible}} Apple does not stock current generation iPad parts within GSX (See Certified Repair Centers). A limited selection of iPad parts are available from iFixit, however this can exclude some flex PCBs necessary for repairing headphone jacks.{{CitationNeeded|reason=proof if possible}}

If an Apple iPhone has GPS calibration issues and or {{Wplink|Bluetooth}} connectivity issues, Apple will do their own diagnostics. You explain to the Apple employee how and when the issues occur and you explain in detail your methods to reproduce the issues. The issues occur when your phone is in your pocket while using navigation and when you hold your phone upside down while using your Apple Beats wireless headphones. After Apple runs their diagnostics and they are not able to detect the issues, they will move onto the next step which is fully resetting your device. This is considered a standard troubleshooting procedure. When you ask the Apple store manager if they would be willing to exchange your device for a similar model if they cannot fix your device they respond with "No, because these phones are designed to be fixed". After the software reset fail, Apple will require you to leave your phone with them so they can send it to their offsite repair facility for further diagnostics. After a few days, Apple will come to the conclusion that your phone requires an entire new midsection. When asked what was replaced, Apple will inform you that the entire inside has been replaced — essentially giving you a new phone (with a new IMEI, EID, etc.) apart from the casing and screen. {{CitationNeeded}}

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===Certified repair centers===

Certified Repair Centers have some limited access to Apple's proprietary backend (GSX2). GSX contains many tools necessary to repair devices such as diagnostic tools, calibration tools, parts catalog, and device repair history. GSX is only accessible to repair centers Apple deems certified. GSX does not stock parts for iPads. It does not allow the calibration of parts such as lid sensors for a device, if that device does not have an open repair and purchased parts. The new iOS 18 calibration tool is very similar to Apple's ASU (GSX's diagnostic/calibration tool). Some videos of GSX can be found online. See: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wy8bS1AgxcY GSX - How to Gain GSX Apple Access - iOSGenius]

Certified Repair Centers have some limited access to Apple's proprietary backend (GSX2). GSX contains many tools necessary to repair devices such as diagnostic tools, calibration tools, parts catalog, and device repair history. GSX is only accessible to repair centers Apple deems certified. GSX does not stock parts for iPads. It does not allow the calibration of parts such as lid sensors for a device, if that device does not have an open repair and purchased parts.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Jan 2017 |title=GSX - How to Gain GSX Apple Access - iOSGenius |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wy8bS1AgxcY |url-status=live}}</ref> {{CitationNeeded|reason=add an archive and properly cite this}}The new iOS 18 calibration tool is very similar to Apple's ASU (GSX's diagnostic/calibration tool). Some videos of GSX can be found online. See: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wy8bS1AgxcY GSX - How to Gain GSX Apple Access - iOSGenius]

===Advertisements in first party apps===

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File:Apple Wallet F1 sponsored ad (2).jpg|Home screen of Wallet app

File:Apple Wallet F1 sponsored ad (3).jpg|Apple Cash card screen

File:Apple Wallet F1 sponsored ad (4).~~PNG~~|Screen when selecting "learn more"

File:Apple Wallet F1 sponsored ad (4).png|Screen when selecting "learn more"

</gallery>

===AirDrop censorship (''2022'')===

[[File:AirDrop restrictions.png|alt=Airdrop Sharing Restrictions photo|thumb|Airdrop Sharing Restrictions]]

As a result of the 2019 Hong Kong protests, Apple was pressured by the Chinese government to set a time limit for the AirDrop "everyone" option for iPhones due to its impact at scheduling protests against the government to avoid censorship.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2022/11/10/23450967/apple-airdrop-limited-china-goverment-protests|title=Apple limits AirDrop in China after its use in protests|first=Jess|last=Weatherbed|date=2022-11-10|work=The Verge|access-date=2025-08-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250723112204/https://www.theverge.com/2022/11/10/23450967/apple-airdrop-limited-china-goverment-protests|archive-date=2025-07-23|url-status=live}}</ref>

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*Restricting how third-party message apps can interact with iMessage.

*Restricting their HomeKit home automation system and all compatible devices to work only on Apple's products and issuing cease & desist orders against emulators designed to make HomeKit compatible with third-party products.

*Restricting compatibility of third party smart watches.

*Restricting compatibility of third party smart watches.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-03-21 |title=U.S and Plaintiff States v. Apple Inc. |url=https://www.justice.gov/atr/case/us-and-plaintiff-states-v-apple-inc |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260221190000/https://www.justice.gov/atr/case/us-and-plaintiff-states-v-apple-inc |archive-date=2026-02-21 |access-date=2026-03-11 |website=United States Department of Justice}}</ref>{{CitationNeeded|reason=make sure the source beside this is the actual antitrust case.}}

Apple is expected to go to trial in early 2027.<ref>{{cite web |last=Liedtke |first=Michael |date=2025-06-30 |title=Judge allows antitrust lawsuit against Apple to proceed |url=https://apnews.com/article/apple-antitrust-case-justice-department-664c187d7d09d57460076c7aa2f0c0bf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260205235908/https://apnews.com/article/apple-antitrust-case-justice-department-664c187d7d09d57460076c7aa2f0c0bf |archive-date=2026-02-05 |access-date=2025-07-14 |work=Associated Press}}</ref>

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===Elon Musk Lawsuit===

In August of 2025, businessman Elon Musk accused Apple of engaging in anti-competitive practices by only allowing ~~their AI program OpenAI~~ to reach the top of the sales chart on Apple App Store. He announced his plan to sue Apple for this practice.<ref>{{cite web |last=Durden |first=Tyler |date=2025-08-12 |title=Musk Accuses Apple Of "Unequivocal Antitrust Violation" For Favoring OpenAI In App Store Rankings |url=https://www.zerohedge.com/technology/musk-accuses-apple-unequivocal-antitrust-violation-favoring-openai-app-store-rankings |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251029051235/https://www.zerohedge.com/technology/musk-accuses-apple-unequivocal-antitrust-violation-favoring-openai-app-store-rankings |archive-date=2025-10-29 |access-date=2025-08-14 |work=ZeroHedge}}</ref>

In August of 2025, businessman [[Elon Musk]] accused Apple of engaging in anti-competitive practices by only allowing OpenAI’s [[ChatGPT]] to reach the top of the sales chart on Apple App Store. He announced his plan to sue Apple for this practice.<ref>{{cite web |last=Durden |first=Tyler |date=2025-08-12 |title=Musk Accuses Apple Of "Unequivocal Antitrust Violation" For Favoring OpenAI In App Store Rankings |url=https://www.zerohedge.com/technology/musk-accuses-apple-unequivocal-antitrust-violation-favoring-openai-app-store-rankings |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251029051235/https://www.zerohedge.com/technology/musk-accuses-apple-unequivocal-antitrust-violation-favoring-openai-app-store-rankings |archive-date=2025-10-29 |access-date=2025-08-14 |work=ZeroHedge}}</ref>

===Greenwashing===

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Customers are lead to think that their purchases and frequent replacement of their devices do not have a negative impact on the environment, which is not the case.

In autumn of 2025, stricter EU regulations on misleading marketing claims and a ~~lawsuite~~ by German environmental and consumer protection non-profit organization ''Deutsche Umwelthilfe'' have forced Apple to remove their claim of carbon neutrality on several products on their EU websites. Affected products include the Apple Watch 3 and Apple Watch Series 11.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schwan |first=Ben |date=2025-11-26 |title=Wegen EU-Regeln: Apple zieht Klimaneutralitäts-Claim zurück [Due to EU regulations: Apple retracts claim of climate neutrality] |url=https://www.heise.de/news/Wegen-EU-Regeln-Apple-zieht-Klimaneutralitaets-Claim-zurueck-10711532.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260129120129/https://www.heise.de/news/Wegen-EU-Regeln-Apple-zieht-Klimaneutralitaets-Claim-zurueck-10711532.html |archive-date=2026-01-29 |access-date=2025-11-26 |website=Heise Online}}</ref>

In autumn of 2025, stricter EU regulations on misleading marketing claims and a lawsuit by German environmental and consumer protection non-profit organization ''Deutsche Umwelthilfe'' have forced Apple to remove their claim of carbon neutrality on several products on their EU websites. Affected products include the Apple Watch 3 and Apple Watch Series 11.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schwan |first=Ben |date=2025-11-26 |title=Wegen EU-Regeln: Apple zieht Klimaneutralitäts-Claim zurück [Due to EU regulations: Apple retracts claim of climate neutrality] |url=https://www.heise.de/news/Wegen-EU-Regeln-Apple-zieht-Klimaneutralitaets-Claim-zurueck-10711532.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260129120129/https://www.heise.de/news/Wegen-EU-Regeln-Apple-zieht-Klimaneutralitaets-Claim-zurueck-10711532.html |archive-date=2026-01-29 |access-date=2025-11-26 |website=Heise Online}}</ref>

====Green energy pooling====

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Apple, like many companies, regularly emphasises how environmentally friendly their packaging is and highlight advancements in this area.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple 2030 – We’ve reduced our emissions by over 60% |url=https://www.apple.com/environment/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250910014941/https://www.apple.com/environment/ |archive-date=2025-09-10 |access-date=2025-09-15 |website=Apple}}</ref>

This deliberately distracts from the fact that only a negligible fraction of the environmental footprint of an electronic device comes from the packaging, as it is made of ~~siginificant~~ amounts or rare earth minerals, metals and mined components and consuming vast amounts of energy, water and fuel in manufacturing and transport.

This deliberately distracts from the fact that only a negligible fraction of the environmental footprint of an electronic device comes from the packaging, as it is made of significant amounts or rare earth minerals, metals and mined components and consuming vast amounts of energy, water and fuel in manufacturing and transport.

Some of the environmental advancements touted by Apple could also be argued to be environmentally beneficial side effects of purely economic decisions aimed at maximizing profit, such as shipping iPhones without chargers.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dragan |first=Lauren |date=2023-09-12 |title=iPhones No Longer Come With a Charger or Headphones. Here’s What to Get If You Need Them. |url=https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/blog/iphone-12-charger-headphones-options/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250731104206/https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/blog/iphone-12-charger-headphones-options/ |archive-date=2025-07-31 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=The New York Times}}</ref>

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Apple likely does not want the public to know about these processes, since security seems to be tight around the shredding process:<blockquote>In some cases, Apple hired outside security consultants to escort trucks to its recyclers and monitor the destruction process, which the tech giant could further analyze through data reports charting scrap weights and commodity yields to ensure the input matched the output.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Carr |first=Austin |date=2025-03-17 |title=Apple Drops Lawsuit Against Recycler in Mystery of Missing iPhones |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2025-03-17/apple-drops-lawsuit-against-recycler-in-mystery-of-missing-iphones |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250829001416/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2025-03-17/apple-drops-lawsuit-against-recycler-in-mystery-of-missing-iphones |archive-date=2025-08-29 |access-date=2025-09-16 |website=Bloomberg News}}</ref></blockquote>Apple later retreated the lawsuit,<ref name=":1" /> leading to speculation that it wanted to avoid having to disclose how many devices they are really having shredded.

====iPhone recycling robot ~~mostly a publicity stunt~~====

====iPhone recycling robot initiative====

The first iteration of Apple's iPhone recycling robot, designed for the iPhone 6, was never more than a publicity stunt, according to an article by Bloomberg:<ref name=":0" /><blockquote>Liam’s precision automation, however, proved a dead end. It could handle just one iPhone model, and not that well. If a device had corroded screws or sticky insides, the robot would glitch. A person familiar with the project estimates Liam could run for about 10 minutes without human intervention. Another person says Apple at times fed the robot still-functioning iPhones and, for media demos, cherry-picked cleaner units so it didn’t crash, suggesting Liam was geared more for promotion than scalability.</blockquote>The same article cites industry insider claiming that the new iteration of the robot is only able to recycle as many devices in a year as Apple sells in just 48 hours.<ref name=":0" /> Thus, it can be assumed that the vast majority of trade-in devices are simply shredded.

===OS-Level age verification===

On February 25, 2026, Apple rolled out the iOS Beta version 26.4, in order to comply with the [[Online Safety Act]] and other similar normatives. This version contains an [[Age verification]] system built on the operating system, blocking content that could be considered as "mature", including websites. It will be rolled on the UK, Brazil, Australia, Singapore and US states of Louisiana and Utah. Site and content blocking cannot be bypassed by [[wikipedia:Virtual_Private_Network|VPNs]] as the restrictions are in the operating system itself. The current only way to prevent being blocked is by verifying by submitting info of an existing credit card. {{~~Citation needed~~}}

[[File:Verificacion-de-edad-en-iOS-26.4.jpg.webp|alt=iOS 26.4 Beta Age verification|thumb|iOS 26.4 Beta Age verification]]

On February 25, 2026, Apple rolled out the iOS Beta version 26.4, in order to comply with the [[Online Safety Act]] and other similar normatives. This version contains an [[Age verification]] system built on the operating system, blocking content that could be considered as "mature", including websites. It will be rolled on the UK, Brazil, Australia, Singapore and US states of Louisiana and Utah. Site and content blocking cannot be bypassed by [[wikipedia:Virtual_Private_Network|VPNs]] as the restrictions are in the operating system itself. The current only way to prevent being blocked is by verifying by submitting info of an existing credit card. <ref>{{Cite web |date=February 24, 2026 |title=Age requirements for apps distributed in Brazil, Australia, Singapore, Utah, and Louisiana |url=https://developer.apple.com/news/?id=f5zj08ey |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260228012954/https://developer.apple.com/news/?id=f5zj08ey |archive-date=February 28, 2026 |access-date=2026-03-06 |website=Apple Devloper}}</ref>

==Products==

*[[~~ICloud~~]]

*[[iCloud]]

*[[~~:Category:Apple IPhones|~~iPhone]]

*[[iPhone]]

*iPad

*Mac

@@ Line 6: / Line 6: @@
 |Type=Public
 |Website=https://apple.com/
-|Description=Tech company known for hardware, software, and operating systems. Has repeatedly restricted device repairs and ability for users to downgrade their OS
+|Description=Tech company known for hardware, software, and operating systems. Has repeatedly restricted device repairs, and exerts strict control over its software ecosystem
+|CompanyAlias= Apple, Inc
 }}
 {{Wplink|Apple Inc.|'''Apple'''}} is an American technology company that was founded in 1976 by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak and Ronald Wayne. It is best known for its consumer electronics, software, and services.
-Apple's current product lineup includes hardware such as the [[:Category:Apple IPhones|iPhone]], iPad, Apple Watch, Mac, Apple Vision Pro, [[Airpods|AirPods]], and Apple TV; operating systems such as iOS, iPadOS, visionOS, and macOS; and various software and services including Apple Pay, iCloud, Apple Arcade, and multimedia streaming services like Apple Music and [[Apple TV+]].
+Apple's current product lineup include iPhones hardware such as the [[:Category:iPhone|iPhone]], iPad, Apple Watch, Mac, Apple Vision Pro, [[AirPods]], and Apple TV; operating systems such as iOS, iPadOS, visionOS, and macOS; and various software and services including Apple Pay, iCloud, Apple Arcade, and multimedia streaming services like Apple Music and [[Apple TV+]].
 <!-- Insert consumer protection summary here. -->
 ==Incidents==
+This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].
 ===Repairability of Apple products in the 2000s===
@@ Line 25: / Line 27: @@
 *2016-2019 MacBooks butterfly keyboards<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bohn |first=Dieter |date=2020-05-04 |title=The saga of Apple’s bad butterfly MacBook keyboards is finally over |url=https://www.theverge.com/2020/5/4/21246223/macbook-keyboard-butterfly-magic-pro-apple-design |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260128222108/https://www.theverge.com/2020/5/4/21246223/macbook-keyboard-butterfly-magic-pro-apple-design |archive-date=2026-01-28 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=The Verge}}</ref>
 *the 2019 16-inch MacBook Pro's SSD failures<ref>{{Cite web |last=digilloyd |date=2020-04-03 |title=2019 MacBook Pro Seems to Have a High Failure Rate |url=https://macperformanceguide.com/blog/2020/20200403_1024-MacBookPro2019-repairs.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250708181056/https://macperformanceguide.com/blog/2020/20200403_1024-MacBookPro2019-repairs.html |archive-date=2025-07-08 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=Mac Performance Guide}}</ref>
-*The announcement and cancellation of Apple AirPower<ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple cancels AirPower product, citing inability to meet its high standards for hardware |url=https://techcrunch.com/2019/03/29/apple-cancels-airpower-product-citing-inability-to-meet-its-high-standards-for-hardware/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190401040644/https://techcrunch.com/2019/03/29/apple-cancels-airpower-product-citing-inability-to-meet-its-high-standards-for-hardware/ |archive-date=2019-04-01 |website=TechCrunch}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Clover |first=Juli |date=2018-09-12 |title=After No Sign of AirPower at Today's Event Apple Wipes Most Mentions From Website |url=https://www.macrumors.com/2018/09/12/no-sign-of-airpower-at-september-event/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211124170507/https://www.macrumors.com/2018/09/12/no-sign-of-airpower-at-september-event/ |archive-date=2021-11-24 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=MacRumors}}</ref> due to overheating{{CitationNeeded|reason=no archived article mentioning overheating specifically}}
+*The announcement and cancellation of Apple AirPower<ref>{{Cite web |last=Panzarino |first=Matthew |title=Apple cancels AirPower product, citing inability to meet its high standards for hardware |url=https://techcrunch.com/2019/03/29/apple-cancels-airpower-product-citing-inability-to-meet-its-high-standards-for-hardware/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190401040644/https://techcrunch.com/2019/03/29/apple-cancels-airpower-product-citing-inability-to-meet-its-high-standards-for-hardware/ |archive-date=2019-04-01 |website=TechCrunch}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Clover |first=Juli |date=2018-09-12 |title=After No Sign of AirPower at Today's Event Apple Wipes Most Mentions From Website |url=https://www.macrumors.com/2018/09/12/no-sign-of-airpower-at-september-event/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211124170507/https://www.macrumors.com/2018/09/12/no-sign-of-airpower-at-september-event/ |archive-date=2021-11-24 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=MacRumors}}</ref> due to overheating{{CitationNeeded|reason=no archived article mentioning overheating specifically}}
 ====Recent attempts to do better====
@@ Line 32: / Line 34: @@
 This includes:
-*Opening an online [[Apple Self Service Repair|Self Service Repair]] parts store.
+*Opening an online [[Apple Self Service Repair|Self Service Repair]] parts store.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-11-17 |title=Apple announces Self Service Repair |url=https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2021/11/apple-announces-self-service-repair/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260203201914/https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2021/11/apple-announces-self-service-repair/ |archive-date=2026-02-03 |access-date=2026-03-08 |website=Apple Newsroom}}</ref>
 *Making the back glass of iPhones removable starting from iPhone 14.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wiens |first=Kyle |date=2022-09-16 |title=Inside Apple’s Secret iPhone 14 Redesign |url=https://www.ifixit.com/News/64865/iphone-14-teardown |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260116032657/https://www.ifixit.com/News/64865/iphone-14-teardown |archive-date=2026-01-16 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=iFixIt}}</ref>
 *Allowing alternative app stores in an update to iOS 17, in compliance with new EU legislation.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Installing apps through alternative app distribution in the European Union |url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/117767 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251223191001/https://support.apple.com/en-us/117767 |archive-date=2025-12-23 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=support.apple.com}}</ref>
@@ Line 38: / Line 40: @@
 *An upgradeable, swappable SSD in the 2024 Mac Mini - albeit you cannot swap these units between M4 and M4 Pro units due to the internal casing's design being different without much good reason.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sorrel |first=Charlie |date=2024-11-12 |title=All Hail the Return of Upgradeable Storage! Mac mini 2024 Teardown |url=https://www.ifixit.com/News/104302/all-hail-the-return-of-upgradeable-storage-mac-mini-2024-teardown |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251116041530/https://www.ifixit.com/News/104302/all-hail-the-return-of-upgradeable-storage-mac-mini-2024-teardown |archive-date=2025-11-16 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=iFixit}}</ref>
 *A battery removable with just a 9V battery in the 2024 iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus.<ref>{{Cite web |title=iPhone 16 Plus Battery |url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/120671 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251018203540/https://support.apple.com/en-us/120671 |archive-date=2025-10-18 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=support.apple.com}}</ref>
-Many of these items have sparked allegations of [[Malicious Compliance]] and being introduced purely to make stricter right for repair legislation appear unnecessary to legislators while not doing much to improve the situation for consumers. <!-- woah there with the accusatory tone -->
+Many of these items have sparked allegations of [[malicious compliance]] and being introduced purely to make stricter right for repair legislation appear unnecessary to legislators while not doing much to improve the situation for consumers. <!-- woah there with the accusatory tone -->
-For instance, pricing for parts on the [[Apple Self Service Repair|Self Service Repair]] store is virtually identical to having the part replaced by Apple themselves (including both the price of the part and labor), alternate app installation options are limited to users in the EU, still require developers to be registered with Apple, have them approve the apps and in many cases paying them fees, and the upgradeable SSDs do not use common standards such as M.2 NVME. Unlike standard SSDs, they are also not always swappable between different models and require access to a second Apple computer to provision after installation.
+For instance, pricing for parts on the [[Apple Self Service Repair|Self Service Repair]] store is virtually identical to having the part replaced by Apple themselves (including both the price of the part and labor)<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ganapini |first=Cristina |date=2022-12-06 |title=Apple’s self-repair programme is not the Right to Repair we need |url=https://repair.eu/news/apples-self-repair-programme-is-not-the-right-to-repair-we-need/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260209051628/https://repair.eu/news/apples-self-repair-programme-is-not-the-right-to-repair-we-need/ |archive-date=2026-02-09 |access-date=2026-03-08 |website=Right to Repair Europe}}</ref>, alternate app installation options are limited to users in the EU, still [[Forced account|require developers to be registered]] with Apple, have them approve the apps and in many cases paying them fees, and the upgradeable SSDs do not use common standards such as M.2 NVME. Unlike standard SSDs, they are also not always swappable between different models and require access to a second Apple computer to provision after installation.
 ===Operating system downgrades===
+[[File:Macos startup security.png|alt=macOS startup security screen|thumb|macOS startup security screen]]
 It is not possible to upgrade or downgrade an iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, etc. to an Operating System (OS) version that is no longer signed by Apple. In most cases, only the most recent version is signed. Some exceptions exist, such as certain Apple TV models and Apple Silicon Macs. Downgrading the Apple TV 4K series is not possible at all due to the lack of a USB port. On Macs with a T2 chip, the user can select from three modes of secure boot:<ref>{{Cite web |title=About Startup Security Utility on a Mac with the Apple T2 Security Chip |url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/102522 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250607083624/https://support.apple.com/en-us/102522 |archive-date=7 Jun 2025 |access-date=22 Jun 2025 |website=Apple}}</ref>
@@ Line 63: / Line 66: @@
 ===Parts availability<!-- This section seems human-written, but deseprately needs citations -->===
-Many parts are not available directly from Apple. Those that are available directly from Apple may be more expensive than paying Apple to repair your device. Parts available to certified repair centers are extremely limited. Apple does not stock current generation iPad parts within GSX (See Certified Repair Centers). A limited selection of iPad parts are available from iFixit, however this can exclude some flex PCBs necessary for repairing headphone jacks.
+Many parts are not available directly from Apple. Those that are available directly from Apple may be more expensive than paying Apple to repair your device.{{CitationNeeded|reason=add citation with proof of this}} Parts available to certified repair centers are extremely limited.{{CitationNeeded|reason=proof if possible}} Apple does not stock current generation iPad parts within GSX (See Certified Repair Centers). A limited selection of iPad parts are available from iFixit, however this can exclude some flex PCBs necessary for repairing headphone jacks.{{CitationNeeded|reason=proof if possible}}
 If an Apple iPhone has GPS calibration issues and or {{Wplink|Bluetooth}} connectivity issues, Apple will do their own diagnostics. You explain to the Apple employee how and when the issues occur and you explain in detail your methods to reproduce the issues. The issues occur when your phone is in your pocket while using navigation and when you hold your phone upside down while using your Apple Beats wireless headphones. After Apple runs their diagnostics and they are not able to detect the issues, they will move onto the next step which is fully resetting your device. This is considered a standard troubleshooting procedure. When you ask the Apple store manager if they would be willing to exchange your device for a similar model if they cannot fix your device they respond with "No, because these phones are designed to be fixed". After the software reset fail, Apple will require you to leave your phone with them so they can send it to their offsite repair facility for further diagnostics. After a few days, Apple will come to the conclusion that your phone requires an entire new midsection. When asked what was replaced, Apple will inform you that the entire inside has been replaced — essentially giving you a new phone (with a new IMEI, EID, etc.) apart from the casing and screen. {{CitationNeeded}}
@@ Line 71: / Line 74: @@
 ===Certified repair centers===
-Certified Repair Centers have some limited access to Apple's proprietary backend (GSX2). GSX contains many tools necessary to repair devices such as diagnostic tools, calibration tools, parts catalog, and device repair history. GSX is only accessible to repair centers Apple deems certified. GSX does not stock parts for iPads. It does not allow the calibration of parts such as lid sensors for a device, if that device does not have an open repair and purchased parts. The new iOS 18 calibration tool is very similar to Apple's ASU (GSX's diagnostic/calibration tool). Some videos of GSX can be found online. See: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wy8bS1AgxcY GSX - How to Gain GSX Apple Access - iOSGenius]
+Certified Repair Centers have some limited access to Apple's proprietary backend (GSX2). GSX contains many tools necessary to repair devices such as diagnostic tools, calibration tools, parts catalog, and device repair history. GSX is only accessible to repair centers Apple deems certified. GSX does not stock parts for iPads. It does not allow the calibration of parts such as lid sensors for a device, if that device does not have an open repair and purchased parts.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Jan 2017 |title=GSX - How to Gain GSX Apple Access - iOSGenius |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wy8bS1AgxcY |url-status=live}}</ref> {{CitationNeeded|reason=add an archive and properly cite this}}The new iOS 18 calibration tool is very similar to Apple's ASU (GSX's diagnostic/calibration tool). Some videos of GSX can be found online. See: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wy8bS1AgxcY GSX - How to Gain GSX Apple Access - iOSGenius]
 ===Advertisements in first party apps===
@@ Line 82: / Line 85: @@
 File:Apple Wallet F1 sponsored ad (2).jpg|Home screen of Wallet app
 File:Apple Wallet F1 sponsored ad (3).jpg|Apple Cash card screen
-File:Apple Wallet F1 sponsored ad (4).PNG|Screen when selecting "learn more"
+File:Apple Wallet F1 sponsored ad (4).png|Screen when selecting "learn more"
 </gallery>
 ===AirDrop censorship (''2022'')===
+{{Main|AirDrop Hong Kong censorship}}
+[[File:AirDrop restrictions.png|alt=Airdrop Sharing Restrictions photo|thumb|Airdrop Sharing Restrictions]]
 As a result of the 2019 Hong Kong protests, Apple was pressured by the Chinese government to set a time limit for the AirDrop "everyone" option for iPhones due to its impact at scheduling protests against the government to avoid censorship.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2022/11/10/23450967/apple-airdrop-limited-china-goverment-protests|title=Apple limits AirDrop in China after its use in protests|first=Jess|last=Weatherbed|date=2022-11-10|work=The Verge|access-date=2025-08-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250723112204/https://www.theverge.com/2022/11/10/23450967/apple-airdrop-limited-china-goverment-protests|archive-date=2025-07-23|url-status=live}}</ref>
@@ Line 102: / Line 107: @@
 *Restricting how third-party message apps can interact with iMessage.
 *Restricting their HomeKit home automation system and all compatible devices to work only on Apple's products and issuing cease & desist orders against emulators designed to make HomeKit compatible with third-party products.
-*Restricting compatibility of third party smart watches.
+*Restricting compatibility of third party smart watches.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-03-21 |title=U.S and Plaintiff States v. Apple Inc. |url=https://www.justice.gov/atr/case/us-and-plaintiff-states-v-apple-inc |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260221190000/https://www.justice.gov/atr/case/us-and-plaintiff-states-v-apple-inc |archive-date=2026-02-21 |access-date=2026-03-11 |website=United States Department of Justice}}</ref>{{CitationNeeded|reason=make sure the source beside this is the actual antitrust case.}}
 Apple is expected to go to trial in early 2027.<ref>{{cite web |last=Liedtke |first=Michael |date=2025-06-30 |title=Judge allows antitrust lawsuit against Apple to proceed |url=https://apnews.com/article/apple-antitrust-case-justice-department-664c187d7d09d57460076c7aa2f0c0bf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260205235908/https://apnews.com/article/apple-antitrust-case-justice-department-664c187d7d09d57460076c7aa2f0c0bf |archive-date=2026-02-05 |access-date=2025-07-14 |work=Associated Press}}</ref>
@@ Line 127: / Line 132: @@
 ===Elon Musk Lawsuit===
-In August of 2025, businessman Elon Musk accused Apple of engaging in anti-competitive practices by only allowing their AI program OpenAI to reach the top of the sales chart on Apple App Store. He announced his plan to sue Apple for this practice.<ref>{{cite web |last=Durden |first=Tyler |date=2025-08-12 |title=Musk Accuses Apple Of "Unequivocal Antitrust Violation" For Favoring OpenAI In App Store Rankings |url=https://www.zerohedge.com/technology/musk-accuses-apple-unequivocal-antitrust-violation-favoring-openai-app-store-rankings |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251029051235/https://www.zerohedge.com/technology/musk-accuses-apple-unequivocal-antitrust-violation-favoring-openai-app-store-rankings |archive-date=2025-10-29 |access-date=2025-08-14 |work=ZeroHedge}}</ref> <!-- Tyler Durden delivering punches with words instead of fists is truly something. -->
+In August of 2025, businessman [[Elon Musk]] accused Apple of engaging in anti-competitive practices by only allowing OpenAI’s [[ChatGPT]] to reach the top of the sales chart on Apple App Store. He announced his plan to sue Apple for this practice.<ref>{{cite web |last=Durden |first=Tyler |date=2025-08-12 |title=Musk Accuses Apple Of "Unequivocal Antitrust Violation" For Favoring OpenAI In App Store Rankings |url=https://www.zerohedge.com/technology/musk-accuses-apple-unequivocal-antitrust-violation-favoring-openai-app-store-rankings |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251029051235/https://www.zerohedge.com/technology/musk-accuses-apple-unequivocal-antitrust-violation-favoring-openai-app-store-rankings |archive-date=2025-10-29 |access-date=2025-08-14 |work=ZeroHedge}}</ref> <!-- Tyler Durden delivering punches with words instead of fists is truly something. -->
 ===Greenwashing<!-- This section needs more work and more sources. It might also make sense to move it to a page of its own -->===
@@ Line 134: / Line 139: @@
 Customers are lead to think that their purchases and frequent replacement of their devices do not have a negative impact on the environment, which is not the case.
-In autumn of 2025, stricter EU regulations on misleading marketing claims and a lawsuite by German environmental and consumer protection non-profit organization ''Deutsche Umwelthilfe'' have forced Apple to remove their claim of carbon neutrality on several products on their EU websites. Affected products include the Apple Watch 3 and Apple Watch Series 11.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schwan |first=Ben |date=2025-11-26 |title=Wegen EU-Regeln: Apple zieht Klimaneutralitäts-Claim zurück [Due to EU regulations: Apple retracts claim of climate neutrality] |url=https://www.heise.de/news/Wegen-EU-Regeln-Apple-zieht-Klimaneutralitaets-Claim-zurueck-10711532.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260129120129/https://www.heise.de/news/Wegen-EU-Regeln-Apple-zieht-Klimaneutralitaets-Claim-zurueck-10711532.html |archive-date=2026-01-29 |access-date=2025-11-26 |website=Heise Online}}</ref>
+In autumn of 2025, stricter EU regulations on misleading marketing claims and a lawsuit by German environmental and consumer protection non-profit organization ''Deutsche Umwelthilfe'' have forced Apple to remove their claim of carbon neutrality on several products on their EU websites. Affected products include the Apple Watch 3 and Apple Watch Series 11.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schwan |first=Ben |date=2025-11-26 |title=Wegen EU-Regeln: Apple zieht Klimaneutralitäts-Claim zurück [Due to EU regulations: Apple retracts claim of climate neutrality] |url=https://www.heise.de/news/Wegen-EU-Regeln-Apple-zieht-Klimaneutralitaets-Claim-zurueck-10711532.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260129120129/https://www.heise.de/news/Wegen-EU-Regeln-Apple-zieht-Klimaneutralitaets-Claim-zurueck-10711532.html |archive-date=2026-01-29 |access-date=2025-11-26 |website=Heise Online}}</ref>
 ====Green energy pooling====
@@ Line 145: / Line 150: @@
 Apple, like many companies, regularly emphasises how environmentally friendly their packaging is and highlight advancements in this area.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple 2030 – We’ve reduced our emissions by over 60% |url=https://www.apple.com/environment/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250910014941/https://www.apple.com/environment/ |archive-date=2025-09-10 |access-date=2025-09-15 |website=Apple}}</ref>
-This deliberately distracts from the fact that only a negligible fraction of the environmental footprint of an electronic device comes from the packaging, as it is made of siginificant amounts or rare earth minerals, metals and mined components and consuming vast amounts of energy, water and fuel in manufacturing and transport.
+This deliberately distracts from the fact that only a negligible fraction of the environmental footprint of an electronic device comes from the packaging, as it is made of significant amounts or rare earth minerals, metals and mined components and consuming vast amounts of energy, water and fuel in manufacturing and transport.
 Some of the environmental advancements touted by Apple could also be argued to be environmentally beneficial side effects of purely economic decisions aimed at maximizing profit, such as shipping iPhones without chargers.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dragan |first=Lauren |date=2023-09-12 |title=iPhones No Longer Come With a Charger or Headphones. Here’s What to Get If You Need Them. |url=https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/blog/iphone-12-charger-headphones-options/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250731104206/https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/blog/iphone-12-charger-headphones-options/ |archive-date=2025-07-31 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=The New York Times}}</ref>
@@ Line 156: / Line 161: @@
 Apple likely does not want the public to know about these processes, since security seems to be tight around the shredding process:<blockquote>In some cases, Apple hired outside security consultants to escort trucks to its recyclers and monitor the destruction process, which the tech giant could further analyze through data reports charting scrap weights and commodity yields to ensure the input matched the output.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Carr |first=Austin |date=2025-03-17 |title=Apple Drops Lawsuit Against Recycler in Mystery of Missing iPhones |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2025-03-17/apple-drops-lawsuit-against-recycler-in-mystery-of-missing-iphones |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250829001416/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2025-03-17/apple-drops-lawsuit-against-recycler-in-mystery-of-missing-iphones |archive-date=2025-08-29 |access-date=2025-09-16 |website=Bloomberg News}}</ref></blockquote>Apple later retreated the lawsuit,<ref name=":1" /> leading to speculation that it wanted to avoid having to disclose how many devices they are really having shredded. <!-- uh-oh, you can't accuse them like that on a wiki page!!1 (Wiki English: please rewrite according to Editorial Guidelines) -->
-====iPhone recycling robot mostly a publicity stunt====
+====iPhone recycling robot initiative====
 The first iteration of Apple's iPhone recycling robot, designed for the iPhone 6, was never more than a publicity stunt, according to an article by Bloomberg:<ref name=":0" /><blockquote>Liam’s precision automation, however, proved a dead end. It could handle just one iPhone model, and not that well. If a device had corroded screws or sticky insides, the robot would glitch. A person familiar with the project estimates Liam could run for about 10 minutes without human intervention. Another person says Apple at times fed the robot still-functioning iPhones and, for media demos, cherry-picked cleaner units so it didn’t crash, suggesting Liam was geared more for promotion than scalability.</blockquote>The same article cites industry insider claiming that the new iteration of the robot is only able to recycle as many devices in a year as Apple sells in just 48 hours.<ref name=":0" /> <!-- < archive.today is deprecated. web.archive mysteriously has a lot of "cannot render article" snaps, but it's visible for fractions of a second  -->Thus, it can be assumed that the vast majority of trade-in devices are simply shredded.
 ===OS-Level age verification===
 {{Main|Apple introduces OS-level age verification}}
-On February 25, 2026, Apple rolled out the iOS Beta version 26.4, in order to comply with the [[Online Safety Act]] and other similar normatives. This version contains an [[Age verification]] system built on the operating system, blocking content that could be considered as "mature", including websites. It will be rolled on the UK, Brazil, Australia, Singapore and US states of Louisiana and Utah. Site and content blocking cannot be bypassed by [[wikipedia:Virtual_Private_Network|VPNs]] as the restrictions are in the operating system itself. The current only way to prevent being blocked is by verifying by submitting info of an existing credit card. {{Citation needed}}
+[[File:Verificacion-de-edad-en-iOS-26.4.jpg.webp|alt=iOS 26.4 Beta Age verification|thumb|iOS 26.4 Beta Age verification]]
+On February 25, 2026, Apple rolled out the iOS Beta version 26.4, in order to comply with the [[Online Safety Act]] and other similar normatives. This version contains an [[Age verification]] system built on the operating system, blocking content that could be considered as "mature", including websites. It will be rolled on the UK, Brazil, Australia, Singapore and US states of Louisiana and Utah. Site and content blocking cannot be bypassed by [[wikipedia:Virtual_Private_Network|VPNs]] as the restrictions are in the operating system itself. The current only way to prevent being blocked is by verifying by submitting info of an existing credit card. <ref>{{Cite web |date=February 24, 2026 |title=Age requirements for apps distributed in Brazil, Australia, Singapore, Utah, and Louisiana |url=https://developer.apple.com/news/?id=f5zj08ey |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260228012954/https://developer.apple.com/news/?id=f5zj08ey |archive-date=February 28, 2026 |access-date=2026-03-06 |website=Apple Devloper}}</ref>
 ==Products==
-*[[ICloud]]
+*[[iCloud]]
-*[[:Category:Apple IPhones|iPhone]]
+*[[iPhone]]
 *iPad
 *Mac