Millions of 4G smartphone users may not realise that they have been automatically included in a a nine-figure lawsuit and could be due compensation.
The lawsuit has been launched against Qualcomm, a multi-billion-dollar US tech firm which makes chips, with claims that as much as £480 million has been unlawfully taken from smartphone owners due to overpricing.
It has been accused of abusing its dominant market position in breach of competition laws, resulting in smartphone manufacturers Apple and Samsung overpaying, with these extra costs passed on to consumers.
The lawsuit was launched by consumer experts at Which? who have now been granted a 'Collective Proceedings Order' from the Competition Appeal Tribunal.
This allows them to go ahead with the lawsuit with tens of millions of Brits automatically included on an opt-out basis.
Anabel Hoult, Which? Chief Executive, said: "We believe smartphones are expensive enough and unlawful costs being passed on to millions of handset owners make prices even higher.
"Which? brought this claim against Qualcomm on behalf of millions of affected UK consumers, as it would not have been realistic for people to seek damages from the company on an individual basis. That's why it's so important that consumers can come together and claim the redress they are entitled to.
"We now urge everyone who thinks they may be affected to visit www.smartphoneclaim.co.uk to find out more about the claim and sign up for updates."
Those included are consumers who purchased one or more new Apple or Samsung 4G smartphones since October 2015.
If you were living in the UK 17 May 2022 you will be automatically included. If you were not, but have purchased an affected device in the UK since October 2015, you may be able to opt in.
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