India’s consumer watchdog has escalated an investigation into Apple following complaints that the iOS 18 update was linked to display and microphone problems on some iPhones.

India’s Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) escalated the matter to its investigation wing on July 29, according to documents reviewed by Reuters. The regulator is looking at complaints that followed the rollout of iOS 18 in late 2024, which include reports of green, pink or white lines appearing on iPhone displays and of microphone malfunctions. 

The investigation does not establish that iOS 18 caused the reported hardware failures. The regulator is examining allegations that the software update was responsible, and is investigating whether how Apple treated affected customers complied with Indian consumer-protection rules.

Apple has disputed the allegations, with the company saying it had not identified issues or safety concerns with iOS 18 in India. Apple also argued that its software is provided without a warranty, which is consistent with industry practice. 

Apple also told investigators that iOS 18 underwent stringent testing and said the CCPA’s case was based on 75 complaints. The company also noted that only about 11% of iPhones were still running iOS 18 by June 2026.

Part of the dispute is around Apple’s warranty terms. According to Reuters, Apple’s software licence states that the software comes “without warranty of any kind”, while its limited warranty generally covers hardware. The CCPA is examining whether those terms and Apple’s handling of complaints could breach consumer rights where consumers allege that a software update contributed to physical or functional problems.

While the investigation in India could result in further action against Apple, no final finding has been made at this stage. Investigators can seek documents and conduct hearings before producing a final report, which means the outcome remains unresolved.