Apple device owners in the United States have the opportunity to claim part of a $95 million settlement related to privacy concerns stemming from Siri’s unintended activations. The settlement follows a 2019 class action lawsuit that accused Apple of infringements on user privacy by recording conversations without consent when its Siri voice assistant was inadvertently activated.
This initiative allows affected users, specifically those who experienced unintended Siri activations between September 17, 2014, and December 31, 2024, to submit claims through a dedicated website. Apple has acknowledged its mistakes, offering apologies and assurances that it will no longer retain users’ recordings post-lawsuit. However, the company has contested accusations alleging it used Siri recordings for advertising targeting.
Claims are open for submission until July 2, 2025, and users can submit claims for up to five Siri-enabled devices, including various Apple products like the iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and more. Each approved claim can yield a payout of up to $20 per device, with applicants needing to certify, under oath, that the activation was unintentional.
Moreover, users who have already received a Claim Identification Code are being notified about their eligibility, but all Apple users who believe they qualify are encouraged to apply, even without a prior notice. This payout serves as a potential step towards rebuilding consumer trust in the company’s handling of user data.
It’s a significant moment for privacy discussions in the tech world, reminding users of their rights and highlighting the importance of transparency in AI technology.