In March 2024, plaintiffs filed a class action accusing Apple of violating the Sherman and Clayton Acts by forcing users onto iCloud storage. They argued that Apple’s 30-percent commission and lock-in of settings data created an illegal monopoly. However, in March 2025, US District Judge Eumi Lee dismissed the suit as untimely, while allowing an amended complaint .
Revived Case After New Allegations
Recently, Judge Lee reversed her own ruling and agreed that the plaintiffs added “substantial new allegations.” Consequently, she ordered the case to move forward. The revised complaint highlights how Apple restricts settings data to iCloud, thereby coercing customers into its ecosystem despite alternative storage options .
Dispute Over Alternative Storage and Timeliness
Moreover, Apple argued that users could freely choose other cloud services. Nonetheless, the new filing points out that few customers actually switch, since Apple makes iCloud the default. Meanwhile, the judge found that the main plaintiff filed within four years of her first iCloud purchase. Therefore, the lawsuit meets the statutory window but may face future challenges on when the claims accrued .
Next Steps and Apple Response
Apple must now respond to the court by July 7, 2025. Although the company has not publicly commented, it previously defended its policies as necessary for user privacy and security. Furthermore, Apple plans to contest the revived allegations at a hearing later this year .
Broader Implications
This decision underscores growing scrutiny of big-tech practices. In addition, it follows other global antitrust actions against Apple’s App Store and payment rules. Ultimately, the outcome could reshape how Apple designs iCloud and other services across its device lineup.
