Comprehensive Guide (Updated May 13, 2025)
Apple has agreed to a $95 million settlement to resolve a class-action lawsuit alleging that its voice assistant, Siri, recorded private conversations without user consent and shared data with third parties. If you owned a Siri-enabled Apple device between 2014 and 2024, you may be eligible for compensation. Below is a detailed breakdown of the lawsuit, eligibility, claim process, and key deadlines.
1. Background of the Apple Siri Lawsuit
What the Lawsuit Alleges
- The lawsuit, Lopez v. Apple Inc., claims that Siri activated unintentionally, recording private conversations even when users did not say the trigger phrase “Hey Siri”.
- Some recordings were allegedly shared with third-party advertisers, leading to targeted ads based on private discussions (e.g., medical treatments, brand preferences).
- Plaintiffs reported instances where discussions about Air Jordan sneakers and Olive Garden restaurants triggered related ads5.
Apple’s Response
- Apple denies all wrongdoing, stating that Siri data was never sold or used for marketing profiles.
- The company settled to avoid prolonged litigation, calling the allegations “unfounded”11.
2. Who Is Eligible for the Settlement?
You qualify if you meet the following criteria:
- Owned or purchased a Siri-enabled Apple device between September 17, 2014, and December 31, 202417.
- Resided in the U.S. or its territories (excludes Canada, Greenland, etc.).
- Experienced at least one unintended Siri activation during a private conversation811.
Eligible Devices Include:
- iPhone
- iPad
- Apple Watch
- MacBook
- iMac
- HomePod
- iPod Touch
- Apple TV17.
3. How Much Can You Claim?
- **Up to 20perdevice∗∗,witha∗∗maximumoffivedevices∗∗(20perdevice∗∗,witha∗∗maximumoffivedevices∗∗(100 total).
- Final payout amounts may decrease if claims exceed the $95 million fund.
4. How to File a Claim
Deadline: July 2, 2025.
Steps to Submit:
- Check for a Claim ID (if you received an email/postcard, use the provided code)7.
- Visit the Official Settlement Website (link not provided in search results; check court-approved sources).
- Submit a New Claim (if no Claim ID):
- Provide name, address, email, and device details (serial number or proof of purchase)8.
- Attest under penalty of perjury that Siri recorded private conversations unintentionally.
- Choose Payment Method:
- Electronic check
- Physical check
- Direct deposit8.
5. Key Dates & Next Steps
- July 2, 2025: Claim submission deadline111.
- August 1, 2025: Final approval hearing (court decides if settlement is fair)711.
- Payments Expected: Late 2025 or early 2026 (if no appeals)89.
6. What If You Don’t File a Claim?
- You forfeit your right to compensation and cannot sue Apple separately for these claims913.
- To opt out (only if you wish to retain legal rights), mail a request by July 2, 20252.
7. Controversies & Ethical Concerns
- Some users question the morality of swearing under oath about unintended Siri activations for a small payout411.
- Critics argue lawyers will receive up to $28.5 million, while users may get just a few dollars per claim511.
8. Broader Implications for Tech Privacy
This case highlights growing concerns about always-on voice assistants (Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant) and unauthorized data collection11. Apple’s settlement sets a precedent, but privacy advocates demand stricter regulations79.
Final Summary
- Eligible? U.S. owners of Siri devices (2014–2024).
- Deadline: File by July 2, 2025.
- Payout: Up to **100∗∗(100∗∗(20 per device).
- How to Claim: Submit online via the official settlement portal.
For full details, visit the settlement website or check court filings in the Northern District of California