Apple has agreed to a $95 million settlement over privacy concerns related to Siri. If you owned an Apple device in the past decade, you might be eligible to receive up to $20 per device.
This settlement is not just about financial compensation; it is a crucial step toward ensuring tech companies are held accountable for data privacy.
If you think you qualify, this guide will explain how to file your claim, when the deadline is, and when you can expect your payment.
Overview
Below is a summary of the key details of the settlement:
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Settlement Amount | $95 million total fund |
| Payout per Device | Up to $20 per eligible device |
| Eligibility Period | September 17, 2014 – December 31, 2024 |
| Covered Devices | iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches, HomePods, MacBooks, iMacs |
| Household Limit | Maximum of $100 (5 devices) |
| Claim Deadline | May 15, 2025 |
| Payment Date | Late 2025 |
| Official Website | Apple Settlement Site (Coming Soon) |
If you are eligible, make sure to submit your claim before the May 15, 2025, deadline to receive your share of the payout.
Settlement
The lawsuit against Apple was filed because Siri allegedly recorded private conversations without user consent. While Siri is designed to activate only when prompted, users reported that it sometimes turned on unexpectedly, capturing sensitive conversations.
Apple denies any wrongdoing but decided to settle to avoid a lengthy legal battle. This settlement highlights the growing importance of privacy protection in smart devices and the need for transparency from tech companies.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for a payout, you must meet these criteria:
Residency
You must be a resident of the United States. Those outside the U.S. are not eligible.
Device Ownership
You must have owned one or more of the following devices during the eligibility period of September 17, 2014, to December 31, 2024:
- iPhones (iPhone 6 and newer models)
- iPads (released after 2014)
- Apple Watches (all generations)
- HomePods and HomePod Minis
- MacBooks and iMacs (manufactured since 2014)
If you no longer own the device, you may still qualify if you can provide proof of ownership.
Proof of Ownership
To file a claim, you must provide proof that you owned an eligible device during the specified timeframe. Acceptable documentation includes:
- Serial numbers from your Apple devices
- Purchase receipts or order confirmations
- Apple ID account records showing past device ownership
If you do not have a purchase receipt, log into your Apple ID account to check past purchases or contact Apple Support for assistance.
Payout
The exact payout per person depends on the number of claims filed. Here is how it works:
| Devices Claimed | Payout per Device | Household Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 device | $20 | $20 total |
| 3 devices | $20 per device | $60 total |
| 5 devices | $20 per device | $100 max |
If many people file claims, the payout per device may be lower than $20. If fewer claims are submitted, payments could be higher.
File Your Claim
If you qualify, follow these steps to submit your claim.
Visit the Settlement Website
The official settlement website will launch after final court approval on February 14, 2025. Check Apple’s website or reputable news sources for updates.
Gather Your Documents
Before filing, collect the following:
- Serial numbers or proof of purchase for eligible devices
- Personal details (name, email, address)
- A statement verifying that Siri activated without your permission
If you do not have a receipt, Apple’s website or customer support may help you retrieve your purchase records.
Submit Your Claim
Once the website is live:
- Fill out the online claim form
- Upload your proof of device ownership
- Submit your claim before May 15, 2025
Double-check your submission for accuracy to avoid delays.
Track Your Payment
You can monitor the status of your claim on the settlement website. Payments are expected to be distributed by late 2025 through direct deposit or mailed check.
Matter
This case is about more than just compensation. It highlights the growing concerns over privacy in smart devices. Here are three important takeaways:
Increased Accountability for Big Tech
Tech companies must ensure they collect data only with user consent. This settlement reinforces that even major corporations must be held accountable for privacy violations.
Consumer Awareness
Most people use voice assistants without realizing how much data they collect. This case encourages users to review privacy settings and take control of their data.
Strength in Collective Action
Class-action lawsuits allow consumers to demand better protections and hold corporations accountable. Without legal action, privacy violations like these may go unaddressed.
If you are eligible, be sure to claim your compensation and take steps to review your device’s privacy settings for better protection.
FAQs
Who can file a claim for the Apple settlement?
U.S. residents who owned eligible Apple devices between 2014-2024.
How much money can I get from this settlement?
Up to $20 per device, with a household limit of $100.
What proof do I need to file a claim?
Device serial numbers, receipts, or Apple ID purchase records.
When is the deadline to file my claim?
May 15, 2025. Late submissions will not be accepted.
When will I receive my settlement payment?
Payouts are expected by late 2025 via direct deposit or check.
