Apple has agreed to a $95 million settlement to resolve a class-action lawsuit alleging that its Siri voice assistant recorded users without consent. If you owned a Siri-enabled Apple device between September 17, 2014, and December 31, 2024, you might be eligible for compensation. This guide will help you determine your eligibility and walk you through the claim process.
Understanding the Lawsuit
In 2019, reports emerged that Siri was inadvertently recording user conversations without the Hey Siri activation phrase. These recordings were allegedly reviewed by third-party contractors to improve Siri’s performance, raising significant privacy concerns. Users claimed that Apple failed to adequately disclose this practice, violating their privacy rights. Although Apple denied these allegations, the company agreed to a $95 million settlement to avoid prolonged litigation. Apple maintains that Siri recordings were never sold or used for targeted advertising.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for compensation, you must meet the following criteria:
1. Residency: You must have resided in the United States or its territories during the eligibility period.
2. Device Ownership: You must have owned or purchased a Siri-enabled Apple device between September 17, 2014, and December 31, 2024. Eligible devices include:
– iPhone (iPhone 6 and later)
– iPad (2014 and later models)
– Apple Watch (all generations)
– MacBook and iMac (2014 and later models)
– HomePod and HomePod Mini
– iPod Touch (6th generation and later)
– Apple TV (with Siri-enabled remote)
3. Siri Activation: You must have enabled Siri on the device.
4. Unintentional Activation: At least once, Siri must have been unintentionally activated during a private or confidential conversation.
5. Legal Declaration: You must be willing to submit a legal declaration under penalty of perjury confirming the above.
Compensation Details
Eligible claimants can receive up to $20 per device, with a maximum of $100 per household for up to five devices. The final payout amount may vary depending on the number of claims submitted and deductions for legal fees and administrative costs.
Claim Submission Process
Follow these steps to submit your claim:
1. Prepare Documentation:
– Full name and mailing address
– Email associated with your Apple ID
– Device serial numbers and/or proof of purchase
– A legal attestation confirming device ownership during the eligible period, Siri activation, and unintentional Siri activation during a private conversation
2. Access the Official Settlement Website:
– Visit the official settlement website: [Lopez Voice Assistant Settlement](https://www.lopezvoiceassistantsettlement.com)
3. Submit Your Claim:
– Click on Submit Claim.
– If you received a Claim ID and Confirmation Code via email or postcard, enter them to access a pre-filled form.
– If you did not receive a code, select New Claim and manually enter your information, including device details or receipts.
– Choose your preferred payment method: direct deposit or electronic check.
– Submit the form before the deadline: July 2, 2025.
Important Deadlines
– Claim Submission Deadline: July 2, 2025
– Final Approval Hearing: August 1, 2025, at the United States District Court for the Northern District of California, Oakland Courthouse
Potential Disqualifications
Your claim may be disqualified if:
– It is submitted after July 2, 2025.
– You fail to provide proof of ownership.
– False information is provided (claims are submitted under penalty of perjury).
Next Steps
After the final approval hearing on August 1, 2025, the court will determine whether to approve the settlement. If approved and no appeals are filed, payments will be distributed shortly thereafter. Stay updated by checking the official settlement website for any announcements or changes.
Conclusion
The $95 million settlement reflects growing concerns over voice assistant privacy. If you meet the eligibility criteria, take the necessary steps to claim your share of the settlement. Ensure you gather all required documentation and submit your claim before the July 2, 2025, deadline to receive compensation for any privacy violations you may have experienced.
