Apple has agreed to pay $95 million to settle allegations of privacy violations involving its voice-activated assistant, Siri, which is claimed to have recorded private conversations without users' consent. The preliminary settlement was submitted on December 31, 2024, to the federal court located in Oakland, California, and it awaits approval from U.S. District Judge Jeffrey White.
The suit, which has spanned five years, alleges Apple secretly activated Siri on iPhones and other devices equipped with the digital assistant, recording conversations without users even intending to call on the service. This raised significant alarms about privacy infringement, especially from customers who hold Apple accountable for its long-standing commitment to safeguarding user data. "Apple has agreed to pay $95 million to settle allegations related to Siri's privacy violations," reported by The Associated Press.
Plaintiffs argue their private conversations were captured and shared with advertisers, resulting in targeted advertising which felt invasive, pointing out instances where discussions about brands like Air Jordan and restaurants led to relevant ads appearing shortly after. One complainant highlighted receiving ads for surgical procedures after discussing them with his doctor. Such allegations starkly contradict Apple's claimed ethos, where CEO Tim Cook has often pitched data privacy as one of the fundamental human rights.
Apple acknowledged the allegations but did not admit any wrongdoing as part of the settlement agreement. "The lawsuit claims Apple recorded conversations through iPhones even when users did not activate the assistant," reported Wired. This behavior seemingly belies the tech giant's position as a staunch defender of user privacy rights.
The proposed settlement will allow consumers who owned iPhones or other Apple devices with Siri from September 17, 2014, to the end of 2023 to claim compensation. Eligible users could receive up to $20 per device, but actual payment amounts may vary based on the total number of claims submitted. Current estimates suggest only 3% to 5% of qualifying consumers are expected to submit claims, as stated by TechCrunch.
This payment is relatively minor when compared to Apple's financial clout, which has amassed roughly $705 billion since 2014. Apple’s financial reserves demonstrate it can afford to address user grievances financially. "This settlement is seen as small compared to the $705 billion Apple has earned since 2014," noted by CNBC.
Legal experts suggest the settlement might serve as both closure for aggrieved users and as a reminder of the importance of stringent privacy protocols within technologically advanced ecosystems. Plaintiffs' attorneys may seek up to $29.6 million from the settlement fund to cover their fees and other litigation costs, as reported by Reuters. This provision reflects the broader expense of litigation and the challenges faced by consumers seeking to uphold their privacy rights.
With the potential court hearing set for February 14, 2025, there are expectations of greater scrutiny on corporate behavior concerning user data. Consumers and advocates alike will be watching closely to see how Apple navigates this judicial process, particularly against the backdrop of its promoted privacy image.
While the settlement positions Apple to mitigate some of the legal fallout from this case, it also raises questions about how tech companies balance innovation with privacy, as well as what users can do to protect their own data. For many consumers, this lawsuit is not simply about financial compensation; it’s about holding giants accountable for protecting their private lives.