Apple faces legal challenge over iCloud storage practices

A U.S. judge has decided that Apple must face a class-action lawsuit about its iCloud storage service. The lawsuit claims Apple unfairly controls the digital storage market, making iPhone users pay more for iCloud by limiting other storage options. U.S. District Judge Eumi Lee in San Jose, California, ruled on June 16, 2025, that the case can move forward because the plaintiffs showed Apple might be breaking antitrust laws by requiring iCloud for backing up important data, like device settings.

Many iPhone users find Apple’s iCloud policies frustrating. The free 5GB storage often isn’t enough, pushing users to buy paid plans. The lawsuit argues Apple blocks other storage services, like Google Drive or Dropbox, from fully backing up iPhone data, giving iCloud an unfair edge. This, the plaintiffs say, lets Apple charge higher prices. Earlier in March 2025, Judge Lee dismissed a similar lawsuit but allowed the plaintiffs to refile with stronger evidence.

The updated case now highlights how Apple restricts certain data to iCloud, making it hard for users to choose other services. Apple defends its rules, saying they ensure high security, but the judge found the new claims strong enough to continue. Apple hasn’t commented on the ruling yet and must respond by July 7, 2025. This case could impact how Apple handles iCloud and competition in the future.