Apple Faces Lawsuit in Australian Court
Many people were delighted when Apple released its newest tablet offering in the market called the "new iPad". One of its defining features is its 4G capability but Australians are not really delighted with the new iPad from Apple.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) announced that the group will be taking legal actions against Apple for allegedly misleading customers regarding their new iPad and its 4G network capability. The ACCC remarked that the group will be filing a legal action against Apple in the Federal Court because of its local "iPad with WiFi + 4G" promotion. The group states that Apple is giving out false advertisement for Australian customers as the new iPad does not work in Australia which provides a different 4G frequency.
The statement released by ACC mentioned that "It represents to Australian consumers that the product "iPad with WiFi + 4G" can, with a SIM card, connect to a 4G mobile data network in Australia, when this is not the case. The ACCC is seeking urgent interlocutory relief to ensure consumers are made aware of the correct technical capabilities of this device." The ACCC also mentioned that the group is seeking a final order which includes "injunctions, financial penalties, corrective advertising and refunds to affected consumers. The ACCC is expected to formally file its application in the Federal Court in Melbourne on March 27, 2012 at 0930 (AEDT).
This is not the first legal battle that Apple has faced in Australia. Apple also has an ongoing case with Korean-based firm, Samsung regarding tablet patents in Australia. Apple also has several legal issues with different companies globally as many companies are battling over their tablet dominance in the global market.
Presently, Apple has retained its number one spot in the tablet market and the release of their new tablet offering seems to seal the deal. The new iPad from Apple has sold 3 million tablets since it was launched in the market.