California Judge Allows Renewed Apple iCloud Monopoly Lawsuit

A federal judge in California has revived a class action lawsuit accusing Apple of monopolizing the digital storage market by forcing iPhone users to rely on its iCloud service for backing up important data, including device settings, which are restricted from third-party alternatives. The plaintiffs argue that Apple's ecosystem design effectively coerces customers into using iCloud despite other potentially superior options, claiming this limits competition and violates antitrust laws under the Sherman Act and Clayton Act. While Apple defended its policy as a security measure and argued the lawsuit was untimely, the judge ruled the case was timely and allowed the amended complaint to proceed, noting substantial new allegations had been added. The lawsuit seeks to represent tens of millions of consumers nationwide who have purchased iCloud storage plans. Apple has not commented on the recent ruling but continues to deny any wrongdoing. This case highlights ongoing scrutiny of Apple’s market dominance and restrictive practices within its closed ecosystem.