Apple has decided to settle a class-action lawsuit over claims that Siri recorded private conversations without users’ consent. The settlement amount is $95 million, though Apple maintains it did nothing wrong, calling the recordings “unintentional.”
The lawsuit accused Siri of activating without the trigger phrase “Hey Siri” and recording private discussions. Plaintiffs argued that these recordings were shared with third parties and used for targeted advertising. Apple denies these allegations, stating the recordings were accidental and not used for ads.
If approved, the settlement will compensate eligible U.S. customers who used Siri-enabled devices like iPhones, iPads, and HomePods between September 17, 2014, and December 31, 2024. Customers can claim up to $20 per device for a maximum of five devices, as highlighted by Reuters.
The settlement also includes a commitment from Apple to delete any Siri recordings collected before October 2019 and improve transparency about data collection.
A February 14 hearing will determine if the settlement is finalized. If approved, affected users will receive notifications on how to claim their share. While the settlement brings some relief, critics point out Apple avoided admitting liability, potentially sidestepping larger penalties under privacy laws.
This case highlights ongoing concerns about voice assistants and data privacy. Similar lawsuits, including one against Google, indicate this issue won’t be going away soon.
Dwayne Cubbins
504 Posts
For nearly a decade, I've been deciphering the complexities of the tech world, with a particular passion for helping users navigate the ever-changing tech landscape. From crafting in-depth guides that unlock your phone's hidden potential to uncovering and explaining the latest bugs and glitches, I make sure you get the most out of your devices. And yes, you might occasionally find me ranting about some truly frustrating tech mishaps.
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