Class action lawsuits were filed against Apple Inc. and Apple Canada Inc. (“Apple”) and several eBook publishers. These lawsuits claimed that Apple and the publishers worked together to manipulate eBook prices in Canada. The allegations suggest that they fixed, maintained, increased, or controlled the prices of eBooks during a certain period.
The lawsuits have resulted in settlements amounting to C$15.175 million. This settlement has been approved by the courts, meaning that the money will be distributed according to the terms agreed upon in the settlement after the claim submission period is over.
If you want to know more about these lawsuits or how the settlement money will be distributed, you can visit the official settlement website.
Who is Eligible to receive the eBook Settlement Amount?
To be eligible for settlement benefits, you must have purchased eBooks in Canada on a Canadian account with retailers like Google, Amazon, Sony, Kobo, or iTunes between April 1, 2010, and March 10, 2017.
Not every purchaser will automatically receive a payment; you must have bought at least 12 eligible eBooks to qualify for a payment by cheque or electronic transfer. eBooks published or distributed by Penguin Random House Canada Limited after December 31, 2014, are not included in the settlements.
How Much Money Will Be Given?
The amount of money you will receive from the settlement depends on how many eligible eBooks you bought compared to the total value of all approved purchases by other Class Members. Payments will be made proportionally based on this comparison. Each claim must be verified to ensure it is eligible. This verification process can affect the final number of people who will receive money and the amount each person gets.
The more people who submit valid claims, the smaller the payout per person will be since the total fund has to be divided among all eligible claimants. Additionally, legal fees, administrative costs, and court fees will be deducted from the total settlement fund before the remaining amount is distributed. Because of these factors, the exact amount each person will receive cannot be determined until all claims are processed and expenses are deducted.
How to Receive Your eBook Settlement Funds?
Automatic Credit or Transfer
If you purchased eBooks using an active Canadian iTunes or Kobo account, or if your account is inactive but still linked to a valid email address, you do not need to submit a claim. Your compensation will be calculated and credited automatically. Expect an email from Notice@eBooksCanadianSettlement.ca if this applies to you.
Claims Process for Other Accounts
If you purchased 12 or more eligible eBooks through a Canadian account with Google, Amazon.ca, or Sony.ca, you must submit a claim to receive compensation. The deadline for submitting your claim is August 29, 2024. Claims can be submitted online quickly and securely. Similarly, if your iTunes or Kobo account is inactive or not linked to a valid email, you also need to submit a claim by the same deadline.
Remember, if you are required to submit a claim and fail to do so by August 29, 2024, you will not receive any compensation.