US: Apple probed by government over iPhone slowdown

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has asked Apple for information related to its disclosure that it used software updates to slow the performance of older iPhones, according to a source familiar with the matter. The investigation is said to be in an early stage.

Bloomberg reported that the Justice Department and the Securities and Exchange Commission are now probing Apple over possible violations of securities laws.

Spokespersons for the DOJ and the SEC declined to comment. In a statement Wednesday, January 31, Apple confirmed receiving government inquiries, but did not specify from which agencies.

“We have received questions from some government agencies and we are responding to them,” Apple said in a statement.

Apple admitted last month that it used software updates to limit the performance of older iPhone models, including the iPhone 6, iPhone 6S, iPhone SE and iPhone 7.

The goal, according to the company, was to “smooth out” peak power demands and prevent older iPhones from sudden shutdowns as their lithium-ion batteries degrade. But it resulted in disappointing performance for users.

Apple’s disclosure set off a backlash among consumer groups and government authorities around the world.

Full Content: Bloomberg

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