Apple Removes Store Subscription Sign-Up Metric After Consent Allegations

Technology · First reported 9 Nov, 03:28 · Updated 03:31

Image: Wikimedia Commons · NASA Johnson Space Center · Public domain

Louis Rossmann alleged that some Apple Store employees enrolled customers in auto-renewing subscription trials without informed consent. Apple removed a staff sign-up metric and reminded employees to obtain consent, though the reason for removing the metric was not confirmed as related to the allegations.

Rossmann alleged that some Apple Store employees activated subscription trials without clearly explaining that charges could begin after the trial, and in some cases pressed the acceptance button themselves.
The reports say Apple tracked a 40% subscription sign-up target for some retail staff; Apple removed the metric early last week, with the stated explanation that it was less relevant during the holiday season.
Apple also reminded retail employees to respect privacy and obtain consent when offering trials and handling other in-store processes; the reports do not establish whether the actions were prompted by Rossmann’s videos.

Summary written by Lux AI from 2 articles

Key facts

Allegations: Some employees allegedly activated auto-renewing subscription trials without informed consent.
Reported target: A 40% sign-up target was reportedly tracked for retail employees at some U.S. stores.
Metric removal: Apple removed the metric early last week; MacRumors reports the stated reason was that it was less relevant during the holiday season.
Staff reminder: Apple issued an internal reminder to obtain consent and respect customer privacy.