Apple Fined $2.29m for Misleading Customers

SYDNEY, Australia - A fine amounting to US$ 2.29 million was imposed on Apple by an Australian judge for an ad where Apple states that the New iPad is compatible with 4G technology.

When first Apple presented the campaign in March, the advertisement described the compatibility of the third generation iPad with 4G technology.

Customers were told that they would have coverage from the mobile network on Long Term Evolution (LTE 4G). Afterwards, Apple made modifications to the equipment, removing the branding of 4G and replacing it with ”iPad Wi-Fi + Cellular”.

Now Apple’s position is that the specific devices are supported by various networks and speeds, but also warns that the LTE networks will not cover the customers.

Initially, Apple had set an agreement with the Competition and Consumer Commission of Australia and was waiting for approval by a judge. The fine, however, was introduced by the Mordy Bromberg Federal Court.