Apple is set to face a legal challenge this week as the UK’s Competition Appeal Tribunal begins hearing a class action alleging the company deliberately slowed down older iPhones through software updates. The case, which could result in compensation claims for millions of UK consumers, centers on accusations that Apple used these updates to mask battery-related issues in certain iPhone models.

The hearing, scheduled to start on Friday, will address disputes over the disclosure of internal documents claimed by Apple to be commercially sensitive. Lawyers representing the class action argue that the technology firm is seeking to withhold evidence that would demonstrate intentional performance degradation, a practice sometimes referred to as “throttling.” They contend Apple’s actions were not transparent to customers and violated consumer rights.

Apple, led by CEO Tim Cook, has consistently denied the allegations and has made several unsuccessful attempts to dismiss the lawsuit since it was filed in 2022. The company maintains that it has a legal right to protect commercially sensitive information from public release and that it did not purposely reduce the lifespan or performance of its devices.

If the class action succeeds, it could affect approximately 21 million users of the iPhone 6s, 6s Plus, SE, 7, and 7 Plus models in the UK, with potential compensation estimated at around £40 per person. Total payouts could reach as high as £956 million, according to lawyers involved in the case.

The UK action follows a related lawsuit in the United States, where Apple settled in 2020 by establishing a $500 million compensation fund without admitting liability. Consumer advocate Justin Gutmann, who is spearheading the UK claim, asserted that Apple abused its dominant market position by failing to inform customers about these performance issues. He criticized the company for attempting to keep evidence hidden and emphasized that if Apple has valid reasons for its conduct, these should be presented transparently in court.

In response, an Apple spokesperson reiterated the company’s stance, stating that it has never intentionally shortened the life of any product or degraded user experience to encourage upgrades. The statement further emphasized Apple’s commitment to designing products that customers value and making devices that are durable and long-lasting.

The tribunal is expected to hold further hearings next year as the case progresses.