Senator Questions Apple on Slowing Older iPhones

What’s the story?

Republican Sen. John Thune of South Dakota, who chairs the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, has asked Apple about its deliberate slowing of older iPhones.

Why does it matter?

In late December, Apple admitted it slowed older iPhones with flagging batteries.

This week, Thune sent a letter to Apple CEO Tim Cook questioning the transparency the company should have provided users before slowing their devices.

"The large volume of consumer criticism leveled against the company in light of its admission suggests that there should have been better transparency," Thune wrote.

As CNET explained, "Thune also asked why Apple decided to replace batteries for $29, instead of making them free to customers….He also asked if the company considered giving rebates to customers who already paid full price for a replacement battery prior to offering discounts."

Thune wants the tech-giant’s response by January 23.

What do you think?

Should Apple have to answer to Congress for slowing its iPhones? Should Apple have been more transparent? Was your iPhone affected? Hit Take Action and tell your reps, then share your comments below.

Take Action

—Josh Herman

(Photo Credit: PeskyMonkey / iStock)