Apple Settles $95 Million Lawsuit Over Siri Eavesdropping Allegations

Apple, the tech giant known for championing consumer privacy, has agreed to a $95 million settlement to resolve a five-year-old lawsuit alleging its virtual assistant, Siri, was used to eavesdrop on unsuspecting users. The proposed settlement, filed in an Oakland, California federal court, highlights claims that Siri recorded conversations even when not activated, potentially violating users' trust and privacy.

The Allegations

The lawsuit, filed in 2019, accuses Apple of secretly enabling Siri to record conversations on devices like iPhones, iPads, and Macs. These recordings, the suit alleges, occurred without users uttering the wake phrase "Hey Siri" and were shared with advertisers to deliver targeted ads. Such practices directly contradict Apple’s longstanding assertion that privacy is a "fundamental human right."

Apple, while agreeing to settle, has not admitted to any wrongdoing. The settlement, which awaits approval by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey White, aims to compensate tens of millions of eligible consumers who owned Siri-enabled devices between September 17, 2014, and the end of 2023.

Who’s Eligible?

Consumers who owned Siri-equipped Apple devices during the specified timeframe can file claims for up to $20 per device, capped at five devices per individual. However, the actual payout could fluctuate based on the number of claims filed. Historically, only 3% to 5% of eligible claimants participate in similar settlements.

A Small Price for a Giant

While the $95 million payout might seem significant, it represents a fraction of Apple’s profits. Since 2014, Apple has earned approximately $705 billion in profits. The lawsuit initially estimated potential damages at $1.5 billion had the case gone to trial and Apple been found guilty of privacy violations.

Legal Fees and Next Steps

Attorneys representing the plaintiffs have proposed deducting $29.6 million from the settlement fund to cover legal fees and associated costs. A hearing to review the settlement terms is scheduled for February 14, 2025, in Oakland.

Implications for Privacy Advocacy

This lawsuit sheds light on the complexities of balancing technological innovation with user privacy. Apple’s reputation as a privacy-first company has been integral to its brand, with CEO Tim Cook frequently championing consumer data protection. The settlement serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and ethical practices in an increasingly connected world.

Eligible Apple users are encouraged to stay informed about the claims process, ensuring they receive any compensation owed. Meanwhile, the case underscores the need for vigilance in safeguarding privacy, even with companies that profess a strong commitment to it.

Will this settlement tarnish Apple’s reputation for privacy? Or will it serve as a wake-up call for the tech industry to double down on user trust? Only time will tell.

At Ed White Law, we are passionate about defending the rights of individuals and businesses in the evolving digital landscape. If you believe your privacy has been violated or have concerns about data misuse, our team is here to help. Contact us to explore how we can help you navigate complex privacy-related legal issues. Your privacy is our priority.