In the fast-paced world of technology, keeping our devices up-to-date is essential to ensure they run smoothly and securely. However, when it comes to iPhones, there has been a long-standing debate about whether or not to update the software. The discussion gained even more attention when popular tech influencer MKBHD, Marques Brownlee, took to Instagram to shed light on the matter class-action lawsuit. In this blog, we’ll delve into the reasons behind this controversy and help you make an informed decision about updating your iPhone.
The Conspiracy Unveiled
The issue arose when Apple implemented this measure without notifying users. This lack of transparency led to widespread speculation and conspiracy theories about planned obsolescence, with many believing that Apple intentionally slowed down older models to encourage users to purchase newer ones. This conspiracy theory gained significant traction, leading to public outcry and, eventually, a lawsuit against Apple, resulting in a hefty settlement.
Apple has reached a resolution in the 2018 ‘batterygate’ lawsuit, agreeing to compensate owners of certain older iPhone models approximately $65 each. This settlement follows a judge’s approval of payments in a class-action lawsuit that accused Apple of intentionally slowing down phone performance. The Cupertino giant will pay over $500 million to address allegations of participating in what has been labeled “one of the largest consumer frauds in history.”
The lawsuit primarily targeted the following iPhone models:
– iPhone 6
– iPhone 6 Plus
– iPhone 6s
– iPhone 6s Plus
– iPhone SE
– iPhone 7
– iPhone 7 Plus
MKBHD highlighted a crucial aspect of iPhone performance
Battery degradation, over time, the capacity of an iPhone’s battery naturally decreases, affecting its ability to deliver maximum power. To counteract this, Apple introduced a measure where they would underclock the CPU (Central Processing Unit) of iPhones with older, degraded batteries. This underclocking prevented the devices from hitting a lower battery power limit, ensuring that they continued to function, albeit at a reduced speed.
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A New Setting Emerges
In response to the controversy and legal action, Apple introduced a new setting that appears if your older iPhone experiences an unexpected shutdown due to insufficient battery power. This setting allows you to choose whether you want to continue running your device at full speeds despite the degraded battery. It’s important to note that this behavior is already built into your iPhone and does not require a software update.
To Update or Not to Update?
Now, the question remains: should you update your iPhone’s software? The answer is a resounding yes. Updating your iPhone ensures that you have the latest security patches, bug fixes, and improvements, making your device safer and more efficient. While the debate about Apple’s practices regarding older iPhones may continue, keeping your device updated is essential for its overall health.
Consider Replacing the Battery
If you’re dealing with an older iPhone that seems sluggish, there’s another option to consider before purchasing a brand-new device: replacing the battery. Swapping out your old battery for a new one can significantly improve your phone’s performance, making it feel faster and more responsive. Plus, it’s a more cost-effective solution than buying a new phone.
Conclusion
In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, it’s vital to stay informed about how your devices function. While the controversy surrounding Apple’s practices with older iPhones may continue to linger, there’s no denying the importance of keeping your device’s software up-to-date. Not only does it ensure security and performance improvements, but it also keeps your device running smoothly. So, the next time your iPhone prompts you to update, go ahead and click that “Install” button – it’s for your device’s own good.