In a significant legal development, Apple has reached a $95 million settlement agreement in a class-action lawsuit that accuses the company of secretly activating its virtual assistant, Siri, to record private conversations. The case dates back five years and involves allegations that unintended activations occurred over more than a decade. Eligible individuals who owned or purchased devices equipped with Siri during the specified period may qualify for compensation. The deadline to file a claim is July 2, and consumers can either opt out or object to the settlement. Payments could reach up to $20 per device, depending on the number of valid claims submitted.
Details of the Siri Settlement and How to Participate
During the span of October 2014 to December 2024, owners of various Apple products—ranging from iPhones and iPads to Apple Watches and HomePods—may have experienced inadvertent activations of Siri during confidential discussions. In response to these concerns, Apple agreed earlier this year to settle the long-standing legal dispute without admitting any fault. Individuals wishing to participate in the settlement must submit their claims by the established deadline. Those who received notification via email or postcard should utilize the provided codes when filing online. However, even if no such communication was received, users believing they qualify are encouraged to proceed with their claims. The final approval hearing for the settlement is set for August 1.
Additionally, Apple recently introduced an update to its iOS system featuring enhanced security measures designed to protect user data from unauthorized access.
From a journalistic perspective, this settlement highlights the ongoing tension between technological innovation and privacy rights. It serves as a reminder for companies to prioritize user privacy and transparency in their product designs. For consumers, it underscores the importance of staying informed about how personal data is handled and advocating for stronger protections when necessary. As technology continues to evolve, balancing convenience with privacy remains a critical challenge for both developers and users alike.