Previously¹, refunds² were made on a case-by-case basis and often only with good reason, but the latest update means customers don't even have to explain why they want their money back.

 

All cancellations must be made in writing, within 14 days, and the updates only apply to customers in the EU.

 

The updates came into effect on 16 December and have been made to comply with the most recent EU directive on consumer rights.

 

This directive was passed in June and was designed to replace the previous consumer rights directive for customers across the union.

 

Under the original directive, people who bought items online, on the phone, or by mail order, had a seven-day 'cooling off period' to decide if they wanted to keep or return the items.

 

The new directive extends this to 14 calendar days.

 

This means consumers can legally return the goods, for whatever reason, if they change their minds.

 

The withdrawal⁴ period starts from the moment the user receives the goods, rather than when the purchase is completed - which was previously the case.

 

As Apple's new terms explain: 'If you choose to cancel your order, you may do so within 14 days from when you received your receipt without giving any reason.

 

'To cancel your order, you must inform us of your decision.'

 

An exception is iTunes gift cards that have been redeemed⁵.

 

'To ensure immediate⁶ processing we recommend you use Report a Problem to cancel all items with the exception of iTunes Match, Season Pass, Multi-Pass and, unless purchased from a third party or redeemed, iTunes Gifts and Allowances, which can be cancelled by contacting iTunes Support,' continued the terms.

 

Once the cancellation³ notice has been sent and acknowledged, Apple will reimburse⁷ the customer 'no later than 14 days' from the day on which it received the notice.

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