Quick Read
- Apple settled a $95M lawsuit over Siri privacy violations.
- Eligible users can claim up to $20 per device, max $100 for five devices.
- Claims must be submitted by July 2, 2025, via LopezVoiceAssistantSettlement.com.
- Proof of purchase or device serial numbers may be required.
- Payments will be processed after the final hearing on August 1, 2025.
What is Apple’s $95 Million Siri Settlement About?
Apple recently agreed to a $95 million settlement to resolve allegations that its Siri voice assistant inadvertently recorded private conversations without users’ consent. The class-action lawsuit, led by Fumiko Lopez and filed in 2021, accused Apple of violating consumer privacy by sharing these recordings with third-party advertisers. According to the settlement website, Apple denies any wrongdoing but agreed to the settlement to avoid prolonged litigation.
Who is Eligible for the Settlement?
If you owned a Siri-enabled device between September 17, 615, and December 31, 2024, and experienced unintended Siri activations during private conversations, you may be eligible to file a claim. Eligible devices include:
- iPhone
- iPad
- Apple Watch
- MacBook
- iMac
- HomePod
- iPod Touch
- Apple TV
To qualify, you must reside in the United States or its territories and provide proof of purchase or serial numbers for your devices.
How Much Can You Claim?
The settlement allows claimants to receive up to $20 per Siri-enabled device, with a maximum payout of $100 for five devices. The actual amount you receive will depend on the number of valid claims submitted. According to the settlement administrator, if fewer people file claims, individual payouts may increase proportionally.
How to File a Claim
Filing a claim is straightforward. Here’s what you need to do:
- Visit the settlement website at LopezVoiceAssistantSettlement.com.
- If you received an email or postcard with a Claim ID and confirmation code, use these to log in and submit your claim.
- If you didn’t receive a notice, click on “New Claim” and provide your name, address, and proof of purchase or device serial numbers.
- Choose your preferred payment method: paper check, e-check, or direct deposit.
- Submit your claim by the deadline: July 2, 2025.
When Will You Receive Your Payment?
The final approval hearing for the settlement is scheduled for August 1, 2025. If no appeals are filed, payments will be processed shortly after. However, if appeals occur, the payout could be delayed. Claimants are advised to be patient, as the settlement administrator will update the website with any new information.
Background: How Did This Lawsuit Begin?
The lawsuit originated from a 2019 report by The Guardian, which alleged that Siri occasionally activated without the trigger phrase “Hey Siri” and recorded private conversations. These recordings were reportedly used to improve Apple’s voice recognition technology and shared with third-party advertisers. The allegations led to widespread concerns about privacy violations, prompting the class-action lawsuit filed by the Wood Law Firm on behalf of affected consumers.
What Steps Can You Take to Protect Your Privacy?
If you’re concerned about unintended Siri activations, you can disable the feature on your devices. Here’s how:
- Go to Settings > Siri & Search.
- Toggle off Listen for ‘Hey Siri’ and Press Side Button for Siri.
- Confirm by selecting Turn Off Siri in the pop-up window.
You can also restrict microphone access for individual apps by navigating to Settings, selecting the app, and toggling off Microphone.
Apple’s $95 million Siri settlement is a significant step in addressing consumer privacy concerns. If you believe you’re eligible, don’t miss the opportunity to file your claim before the July 2, 2025, deadline. Visit the settlement website for more details and updates.
Source: Pennlive, Nbcchicago, Wbaltv