Apple to pay $9 million to Maryland readers for e-book price hikes

Apple Inc. will pay out $9 million to Maryland consumers as the result of an e-book price-fixing lawsuit brought on by Maryland and 32 other states.

Maryland customers will be eligible to receive a portion of a $400 million payment Apple is making to customers nationwide. Readers will receive a payout for e-books purchased through the Apple online store between April 1, 2010 and May 21, 2012.

Customers who purchased New York Times bestsellers in the two-year timeframe will receive a credit of $6.93 per book, and all other books will be credited at $1.57 each, according to the Maryland's Office of the Attorney General. Eligible customers should receive their credits by June 24. Consumers do not need to apply for the credits.

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