Apple has agreed to pay $95 million to settle allegations of privacy violations involving its virtual assistant, Siri. The lawsuit claims Siri inadvertently recorded private conversations and that this data was shared without user consent. Although Apple denies the allegations, it opted for a settlement to avoid prolonged legal battles.
This case originated in 2019 when reports surfaced that Apple contractors were reviewing sensitive Siri recordings, including medical consultations and personal discussions. While Apple addressed these concerns with policy changes, the lawsuit highlights persistent privacy fears among users.
The settlement could benefit millions of U.S.-based Apple users who meet the eligibility requirements. Here’s everything you need to know about the case, eligibility criteria, and steps to protect your privacy when using Siri.
Apple Siri Eavesdropping Settlement 2025
The controversy began when users reported that Siri often activated unintentionally, recording private conversations. Investigations revealed that Apple contractors reviewed these recordings to improve Siri’s accuracy. However, the recordings allegedly included sensitive and personal content, sparking concerns over privacy violations.
- Targeted Ads: Users claimed they received ads for products or services they had only discussed in private. For instance, one plaintiff mentioned discussing Air Jordan sneakers and later saw related advertisements on their devices.
- Medical Discussions: Another user reported receiving ads for surgical treatments after a private conversation with a doctor.
These incidents suggested that Siri data might have been used for targeted advertising, despite Apple’s claims to the contrary.
Who Qualifies for Compensation?
If you believe you’re entitled to compensation, here are the key criteria:
- Device Ownership: You must have owned a Siri-enabled Apple device (such as an iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch) between September 17, 2014, and December 31, 2024.
- Location: Eligibility is limited to users residing in the United States.
- Unintended Siri Activations: Claimants must confirm under oath that Siri was triggered unintentionally, leading to private conversations being recorded.
Key Dates to Remember
- Website Launch: A claims website will be launched within 45 days of court approval (expected around February 14, 2025).
- Filing Deadline: Claims must be submitted by May 15, 2025.
Each eligible user may receive $20 per device, with a maximum payout of $100 for up to five devices. The final payout may vary based on the total number of claims approved.
Breakdown of the Settlement Fund
Apple’s $95 million settlement will be distributed as follows:
| Category | Allocation |
|---|---|
| Legal Fees and Expenses | Approximately $30 million |
| Claimant Compensation Pool | Remaining $65 million |
| Estimated User Payment | $20/device (up to $100 for five devices) |
A significant portion of the fund will cover legal expenses, reducing the amount available for user compensation. However, the settlement reflects Apple’s willingness to address user concerns and move forward.
Apple’s Response to Privacy Concerns
Apple continues to deny all allegations, emphasizing that Siri was designed with privacy in mind. According to the company:
- No Advertising Use: Siri recordings were never sold or used for targeted advertising.
- Anonymized Data: Siri uses a random identifier to process data, ensuring it is not tied to a specific Apple ID.
- On-Device Processing: Many Siri requests are now handled directly on the device, minimizing data sharing.
Privacy Enhancements Since 2019
In response to earlier criticisms, Apple implemented the following changes:
- End of Human Review: Apple ceased human review of Siri recordings and moved to using anonymized, opt-in data.
- Limited Data Retention: Siri request histories are disassociated from user identifiers after six months.
- Improved User Control: Users can now review and delete Siri data via their device settings.
Steps to Protect Your Privacy with Siri
If you’re concerned about unintended eavesdropping, you can modify Siri’s settings to reduce privacy risks:
- On iOS devices:
- Navigate to Settings > Siri & Search.
- Toggle off Listen for “Hey Siri” and Press Side Button for Siri.
- On macOS devices:
- Go to System Settings > Siri & Spotlight.
- Toggle off Enable Ask Siri.
For users who prefer maximum privacy, disabling Siri entirely is an option. However, this may limit the device’s functionality in certain scenarios, such as hands-free operations.
What This Settlement Means for Apple and Its Users
While the $95 million settlement may seem significant, it represents a small fraction of Apple’s annual revenue, which exceeded $93 billion in the last fiscal year. The company’s willingness to settle reflects its focus on avoiding protracted legal battles and addressing user concerns promptly.
This case serves as a reminder of the importance of digital privacy. Users should remain vigilant about the data they share with virtual assistants and take proactive steps to protect their information.
How to File Your Claim
Filing a claim is a straightforward process once the website is launched. Here are the steps:
- Visit the official claims website (details to be announced).
- Provide proof of device ownership within the eligibility period.
- Submit an affidavit confirming unintended Siri activations.
- File your claim before the May 15, 2025, deadline.
The Future of Siri and Digital Privacy
The Siri eavesdropping settlement highlights the growing need for transparency and accountability in technology. While Apple has implemented significant privacy measures, the case underscores the importance of user awareness and control over personal data. For Siri users, this settlement offers not just compensation but also reassurance that their concerns are being taken seriously.