$AAPL: Apple Expands Radio Reach with TuneIn — But $490M Settlement Still Lingers

Court: N.D. California

Case: 4:19-cv-02033

Apple AAPL has teamed up with TuneIn to distribute its six commercial-free radio stations across a global network of connected devices. For the first time, Apple Music’s 24/7 stations will be available outside the Apple ecosystem, reaching TuneIn’s 75M+ monthly active users across smart speakers, headphones, and in-car systems. The move comes as Apple looks to regain ground from Spotify, which has gained market share in digital music subscriptions. Yet, the company is still weighed down by its $490M settlement with investors tied to misstatements about iPhone demand in China.

• Apple launches six radio stations on TuneIn, expanding global reach.
• Stations include Apple Music 1, Hits, Country, Música Uno, Club, and Chill.
• Deal opens access across 200+ connected devices and 15+ auto brands.
• Apple’s U.S. music subscriber share fell to 25% in 2024, down from 30% in 2020.
• Spotify continues to widen its lead, intensifying competitive pressure.

Timeline Overview

• Nov 1, 2018 – Tim Cook denies China was a source of sales pressure.
• Jan 2, 2019 – Apple cuts revenue forecast by $9B, citing weak China demand.
• Jan 3, 2019 – AAPL falls 10% following the disclosure.
• Apr 16, 2019 – Investors sue Apple over misleading statements.
• 2025 – Apple agrees to a $490M investor settlement to end claims.

Allegations Include

• Hiding weakening iPhone demand in China.
• Misleading investors on impacts of the U.S.–China trade war.
• Understating effects of battery discounts on sales.
• Failing to disclose competitive risks from lower-priced rivals.

Investor Update

The $490M settlement resolved shareholder litigation but underscores how Apple’s global strategy and competitive positioning remain under constant scrutiny. While partnerships like TuneIn broaden reach, legal and regulatory risks continue to weigh on long-term investor confidence.

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