Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Apple sued over iOS9 default wi-fi feature

Apple is being sued for introducing a feature in its mobile operating system that uses mobile data when wi-fi coverage is weak.

Wi-fi Assist first appeared in iOS9 and allows devices to automatically switch between wi-fi and mobile data.

A class-action lawsuit filed in California alleged that some people had run up large mobile data bills as a result of the feature, which was enabled by default, a BBC report said.

They alleged the "overall amount in controversy" exceeded $5m (£3.25m), because so many people could be affected.

Apple's support website currently warns customers that they "might use more cellular data" if they leave the feature enabled.

Apple declined to comment.

Wi-fi Assist is designed to give people a more seamless internet experience as they leave an area with wi-fi, or if the signal is weak.

By default, most smartphones exclusively use a wi-fi connection to access the internet if one is available - helping keep people within their mobile data allowance.

But prioritising wi-fi can result in periods of poor connectivity - for example when leaving home - while a smartphone judges whether the wi-fi is still available, before reverting to mobile data.

Some Android handsets have a similar setting, such as Samsung's Smart Network Switch, which is switched off by default.



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