A significant legal case has been brought against Qualcomm by consumer group Which?, alleging that the chipmaker engaged in anti-competitive practices by charging inflated licensing fees to manufacturers like Apple and Samsung, which were then passed on to consumers through higher prices or lower-quality smartphones.

The lawsuit, filed on behalf of approximately 29 million UK smartphone users, focuses on whether Qualcomm held and abused market power, with a second trial planned to assess damages to consumers, estimated by Which? at an average of £17 per affected phone purchased between October 1, 2015, and January 9, 2024.

Which? stresses the importance of this case in holding powerful companies accountable and hopes the outcome will set a precedent, sending a clear message that anti-competitive practices by large corporations can and should be challenged.

The legal action aims to challenge Qualcomm’s alleged breaches of UK competition law and to demonstrate that even dominant firms are not above scrutiny for abusive behavior.

Qualcomm denies the allegations, asserting that the case has no basis, and has previously faced legal challenges, including a US lawsuit dismissed in 2020.

As of now, Qualcomm has not responded to the lawsuit or allegations, despite being approached for comment.

Anabel Hoult, CEO of Which?, emphasizes the importance of collective action in enabling consumers to seek redress and highlights that this case demonstrates consumer power and the need to challenge anti-competitive practices.