In a recent development, Apple has reached a settlement in a class-action lawsuit regarding its Family Sharing feature. The tech giant has agreed to pay out a sum of $25 million to resolve allegations that it misrepresented the functionality of the feature, specifically relating to sharing subscriptions to apps.

The lawsuit, initially filed in 2019, argued that Apple had falsely advertised Family Sharing as an option on apps that did not actually support the feature. According to court documents, the majority of subscription-based apps, which constitute a significant portion of Apple's app offerings, could not be shared with designated family members. Nonetheless, these apps were found to include statements indicating support for Family Sharing on their landing pages until January 30, 2019.

Apple, though denying any wrongdoing, decided to settle the lawsuit, citing the burdensome and costly nature of continuing the legal battle. The settlement agreement explicitly states that Apple does not admit any fault or liability.

Unfortunately, Apple declined to provide a comment when approached by TechCrunch.

As per the court documents, the lawsuit highlighted that millions of consumers downloaded subscription-based apps under the belief that they could be shared within their Family Sharing groups, only to discover post-payment that this was not the case.

As a result of the settlement, U.S. residents who were part of a Family Sharing group with at least one other person between June 21, 2015, and January 30, 2019, and purchased a subscription to an app during that period may be eligible for a payment. Each eligible class member can file a claim and receive up to $30, although the final amount may vary depending on the number of claims filed. It is important to note that the maximum payment per class member will not exceed $50. Additionally, $10 million from the settlement will be allocated towards attorney fees.

Eligible class members should anticipate receiving an email this week outlining the claims process and providing further details.

This settlement brings closure to the lawsuit, concluding the legal dispute between Apple and the class action plaintiffs. The payment marks a significant step by Apple in resolving the matter and further highlights the importance of accurately representing the features and functionalities of products and services to consumers.