Apple's $95 Million Siri Settlement: Who's Eligible And How To Participate

James

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Post on May 10, 2025

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Apple's $95 Million Siri Settlement: Who's Eligible and How to Participate

Apple's voice assistant, Siri, has been a ubiquitous presence on iPhones and other Apple devices for years. But a recent class-action lawsuit revealed a potential privacy violation, leading to a significant settlement. Apple has agreed to pay $95 million to settle claims that Siri secretly recorded and stored users' private conversations. This article breaks down who is eligible for a share of this settlement and how to participate in the claim process.

What was the lawsuit about?

The lawsuit, In re: Apple Siri Privacy Litigation, alleged that Siri, even when not explicitly invoked by the user, would record audio snippets and send them to Apple's servers for analysis. This allegedly occurred without users' informed consent, violating privacy laws in several states. Apple denies wrongdoing but agreed to the settlement to avoid protracted and costly litigation.

Who is eligible for the settlement?

The settlement covers iPhone users in California who, at any point between September 1, 2010, and September 9, 2019, used Siri. This includes those who actively used Siri to place calls or send messages, and even those who never actively used the feature, but had it enabled on their iPhone. Crucially, residence in California during that timeframe is a key requirement. Therefore, simply owning an iPhone during this period is not enough; you must have been a California resident.

How much can I get?

The exact amount each eligible claimant will receive depends on several factors, including the number of valid claims submitted. The $95 million will be divided among all approved claimants. While some estimates suggest potentially hundreds of dollars per claimant, it's more realistic to expect a smaller amount, given the vast number of potential eligible iPhone users in California.

How to submit a claim:

The process for submitting a claim is relatively straightforward:

1. Visit the official settlement website: The website will provide all the necessary forms and instructions. (Note: While I cannot provide a direct link here as the website address might change, searching "Apple Siri Privacy Settlement" on a search engine will quickly provide the official site.)
2. Complete the claim form: You'll need to provide information verifying your California residency during the relevant time period and your iPhone usage. Accurate and complete information is crucial for a successful claim.
3. Submit your claim before the deadline: Pay close attention to the deadline for submitting your claim. Missing the deadline will likely result in forfeiting your potential payment.

What if I have questions?

If you have any questions or concerns about the settlement or the claim process, you should consult the frequently asked questions (FAQ) section on the official website. The website also provides contact information for the claims administrator and legal counsel involved in the case.

Key Takeaways:

• California Residency is Crucial: Only California residents who used Siri between September 1, 2010, and September 9, 2019, are eligible.
• Act Quickly: Submit your claim before the deadline to ensure you receive your potential payment.
• Check the Official Website: The official settlement website is your best resource for accurate information and instructions.

This $95 million settlement highlights the growing importance of data privacy and the legal battles surrounding it. It serves as a reminder to all users to carefully review the privacy policies of the applications and devices they use. Staying informed about such settlements and understanding your rights is crucial in today's digital age.