Apple Settles $95 Million Class-Action Lawsuit Over Siri
Apple has reached a $95 million settlement in a class-action lawsuit regarding Siri eavesdropping, potentially leading to cash payouts for eligible Apple users. The preliminary settlement, filed in Oakland, California on Dec. 13, 2024, is awaiting approval by a U.S. district judge.
The lawsuit alleges that Apple invaded privacy by capturing Siri conversations, sharing them with advertisers when the voice assistant was accidentally activated. This issue dates back to 2019, when reports emerged that contractors were listening to private conversations captured by Siri, including sensitive topics like medical appointments and drug deals.
Although Apple did acknowledge that Siri recordings could be listened to, the lawsuit claims that the tech giant failed to inform users that they were being recorded without consent. It’s a reminder of the ongoing debate around privacy and technology.
Just the other day, I found myself discussing weed dispensaries in Bowling Green, Ohio, only to see a targeted ad related to weed pop up on Twitter shortly after. The convenience of targeted ads can be unnerving at times, especially when it feels like our phones are constantly listening to us.
The settlement, capped at $20 per device with a maximum of five devices per claimant, may not feel like a significant win for those impacted. And the process of claiming payments can be a hassle, requiring proof of devices and possibly more documentation. But for some, the potential payout may not be worth the effort.
To me, it seems like Apple’s way of saying, “Here’s some money, now move along.” The tech giant has substantial resources, so the $95 million settlement may not have a big impact on their bottom line. And while the legal process plays out, it’s uncertain when payments will be distributed and how claimants will need to proceed to receive compensation.
Despite the settlement, Apple has not admitted to spying on users. It’s an ongoing issue in the tech world, where privacy concerns clash with the convenience of smart devices. In the end, this settlement may not change much in the grand scheme of things, but it does shed light on the importance of privacy rights in the digital age.
