UK Consumers Could Receive Payout in Landmark Qualcomm Lawsuit

Millions of UK consumers may soon get a payout. A major lawsuit against chipmaker Qualcomm is heading to trial. Consumer rights group Which? brought the case forward in 2021. The trial is set to begin soon and could last five weeks.

Which? alleges Qualcomm charged Apple and Samsung excessive licensing fees. These costs were then passed on to consumers through higher phone prices. The case was allowed to proceed in 2022. If successful, a £480 million fund would be established for repayments.

Eligibility for the Potential Refund

Almost 30 million people in the UK are potentially eligible. This includes anyone who purchased an Apple or Samsung smartphone. The purchase must have been made between October 2015 and the present date. According to the BBC, the case covers a wide range of models.

Each individual payout is expected to be relatively small. It is estimated to be worth around £20 per person. This amount is similar to the price of a cup of coffee. The total sum sought is significant, but it will be divided among many claimants.

Qualcomm’s Position and Legal History

Qualcomm has previously stated it believes the case has “no basis.” The company is a leading supplier of semiconductors and telecommunications equipment. It has faced similar legal challenges in other jurisdictions. The outcome of this UK trial is being closely watched.

In the United States, the Federal Trade Commission sued Qualcomm. A 2019 verdict against the company was later overturned on appeal. The FTC ultimately decided not to pursue the matter further. This UK case represents a fresh challenge for the tech giant.

Info at your fingertips

Who is eligible for the Qualcomm refund?

UK consumers who purchased an Apple or Samsung smartphone between October 2015 and now are eligible. You do not need to have owned a flagship model. The case covers a broad range of devices from both brands.

How much money could I receive?

The payout is estimated to be around £20 per person. The total fund of £480 million will be divided among nearly 30 million people. The final amount depends on the trial’s outcome and administrative costs.

Do I need to file a claim to get the money?

No, you do not need to take any action at this time. If Qualcomm loses the trial, eligible consumers will receive payouts automatically. The process is designed to be straightforward for customers.

What is Qualcomm being accused of?

Which? alleges Qualcomm abused its market position by charging excessive patent licensing fees. These high costs were then passed on to consumers in the form of higher smartphone prices. The case focuses on its dealings with Apple and Samsung.

When will the trial be decided?

The trial is scheduled to begin soon and is expected to last for five weeks. A verdict will likely follow some time after the trial concludes. The legal process can sometimes involve further appeals.