Apple has initiated a $250 million settlement over a lawsuit claiming false advertising tied to the delayed release of the personalized Siri AI. U.S.-based iPhone owners who bought certain models between June 10, 2024 and March 29, 2025 may now receive around $25 per eligible device, with payouts potentially rising to $95 depending on the number of valid claims. The claims window runs through December 21, 2026. Final court approval is expected February 24, 2027.
What Happened & Why It Matters
Back in June 2024, Apple previewed upgraded Siri features—such as deeper integration with users’ apps, personal context awareness, and on-screen guidance—under its Apple Intelligence umbrella. These features were showcased in public presentations, ad campaigns, and product pages. But the rollout didn’t follow as promised: the personalized Sir i AI feature was delayed in March 2025, leaving many users believing Apple misled them about when that tech would arrive.
In June 2026, Apple finally published the promised Siri AI during its WWDC event. The feature works only on iPhone 15 Pro models and newer devices running iOS 27. Despite being released, Apple still labels Siri AI as a beta capability. The lawsuit centered on accusations that Apple falsely advertised these personalized Siri features before the delay. To avoid trial, Apple agreed to settle despite denying wrongdoing.
Who Can Claim & How Much
To qualify for a payout, claimants must meet these conditions:
- Be a U.S. resident.
- Have purchased—non-resale—one of the eligible iPhones during the period from June 10, 2024 through March 29, 2025.
- Own one of these models: iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, 16, 16e, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, or 16 Pro Max.
Those who meet the criteria can file via the official settlement portal either using serial number — or, if that’s unavailable, email tied to their Apple account and the phone number. An email telling eligible users about the settlement, along with a claim ID and PIN, should arrive soon.
Payments are slated at about $25 per eligible device, but that amount could increase—potentially up to $95—if fewer people submit valid claims than expected. While the claim window remains open until December 21, 2026, disbursements won’t start until after a hearing set for February 24, 2027.
Key Dates & Next Steps
Important deadlines and processes to keep in mind:
- Claim submissions are accepted now through December 21, 2026.
- Final approval hearing is February 24, 2027.
- Payments likely begin sometime after court approval early in 2027.
- The settlement website includes information on opting out, what happens after filing, and other legal fine print.
Anyone uncertain about eligibility or how to file should consult the settlement site and ensure they understand details like whether resale disqualifies them, or whether missing serial numbers require alternative documentation.
This case reflects ongoing scrutiny over how tech companies promote upcoming AI features. While Apple has delivered many of the promised tools—including Siri AI—legal challenges like this could become more common as companies advertise bold innovations before they’re fully realized. Keep an eye on how many eligible users file claims: that won’t just impact payouts—it may also shape expectations for clarity in future AI announcements.
