Two Ways Apple May Put Cash Back in Your Pocket
Apple is returning value to customers in two main ways: a class action settlement for delayed Apple Intelligence features on some iPhones, and higher trade-in values for a range of Apple devices, giving owners more credit when upgrading. This guide explains how to qualify for an Apple settlement claim, what timeline to expect for payments, and how to squeeze the most out of Apple’s Mac trade-in program and broader Apple device trade-in options on iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch. Apple has agreed to distribute USD 250 million (approx. RM1,150,000,000) to eligible iPhone buyers who were promised AI features that arrived late, while also raising maximum trade-in credits on newer hardware by amounts between USD 5 (approx. RM25) and USD 35 (approx. RM160). Used together, these two opportunities can meaningfully lower the cost of your next Apple upgrade.
How the Apple AI Feature Settlement Works
The AI feature settlement covers customers who bought an iPhone 16, 16E, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max, 15 Pro, or 15 Pro Max between June 10, 2024, and March 29, 2025, after Apple advertised Apple Intelligence and enhanced Siri that did not arrive at launch. Payouts between USD 25 (approx. RM115) and USD 95 (approx. RM440) per eligible device are expected. According to CNET, the lawsuit alleged that “Apple allegedly saturated the market with deceptive ads, inducing consumers to purchase iPhones based on the promise of certain enhanced Siri features.” You do not need to file anything yet. After court approval, Apple will give a list of eligible buyers to settlement administrator Verita, which will then send email and postal notices. Each notice will direct you to a settlement website where you can submit your Apple settlement claim online.
Step-by-Step: Claiming Your Apple Settlement Payment
Once the settlement is approved and Verita sends your notice, you will have 90 days from the date you receive it to file your claim. First, watch your inbox and physical mail for a message about the AI feature settlement; it will include a claim number and a link to the official website. Next, visit the site, confirm your identity and eligible iPhone model, and choose how you want to be paid—typically direct deposit or check, depending on the options provided. Apple must send the list of affected customers within five days of settlement approval, which is scheduled for June 17, 2026, and there will be a 45-day notice period after data verification. The settlement states that payments will be made within a 60-day window after all exclusions and objections are resolved, so expect funds sometime after September 2026.
Apple Device Trade-In: New Values and Biggest Winners
Beyond the AI feature settlement, Apple has raised trade-in values on several iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch models, making Apple device trade-in more appealing when you upgrade. For the iPhone 16 lineup, maximum trade-in values now reach USD 695 (approx. RM3,200) for the iPhone 16 Pro Max, USD 560 (approx. RM2,580) for the 16 Pro, USD 465 (approx. RM2,140) for the 16 Plus, and USD 460 (approx. RM2,120) for the base iPhone 16. The oldest iPhones Apple will accept are the iPhone 8 and 8 Plus, with maximum values of USD 35 (approx. RM165) and USD 45 (approx. RM210). On the Mac side, MacBook Pro tops out at USD 690 (approx. RM3,180), MacBook Air climbs to USD 520 (approx. RM2,400), and the Mac mini reaches USD 375 (approx. RM1,730), giving the Mac trade-in program fresh appeal.
How to Maximize Your iPhone and Mac Trade-In Value
To get the best iPhone trade-in value or Mac trade-in credit, start by checking Apple’s online “Find your trade-in value” tool, which shows the current maximum for your exact model. Then prepare your device: back up data, sign out of iCloud, and erase all content so it is ready for inspection. Clean the screen and body to present it in the best condition, and include original accessories if possible. Apple evaluates devices on factors like physical condition, display quality, and whether all buttons and ports work. Because trade-in values quoted are maximums, any damage or defects can lower your offer. For Macs and iPads, confirm that the battery, keyboard, and ports function properly before bringing them in. If you line up your AI feature settlement payment with a well-timed Apple device trade-in, you can stack both benefits toward your next Apple upgrade.