Apple pays compensation to iPhone users for Siri recording conversations without knowledge. Learn about eligibility, payout amounts, and lawsuit details.
© A. Krivonosov
Apple has begun paying compensation to iPhone and other device users whose conversations may have been recorded by the Siri voice assistant without their knowledge. This stems from the settlement of a class-action lawsuit filed several years ago, alleging the "intentional and unlawful" recording of private conversations and subsequent sharing of that data with advertising partners. The case dates back to 2019. While Apple has since revised its privacy approaches for Siri, the company ultimately agreed to a financial settlement.
Eligibility for compensation extends to owners of Siri-enabled Apple devices purchased between September 17, 2014, and December 31, 2024, who experienced the voice assistant activating spontaneously. The lawsuit allowed claims for up to five devices per person. Apple initially set aside $95 million for the payouts, anticipating compensation of around $20 per device. However, the actual amounts turned out to be significantly lower.
After the funds were distributed, the payout came to $8.02 per device. The maximum amount a single user could receive was $40.10. This week, the first payments started reaching those who submitted their claims by the deadline. Users who opted for compensation via gift cards will receive their funds later, with Apple notifying them by email.
The lawsuit was prompted by instances where Siri activated without the "Hey Siri" command and began recording snippets of conversations. In practice, this meant mentions of products or brands from everyday talk could later surface unexpectedly in targeted ads. Given the relatively small payout size, it appears tens of millions of users affected by the situation filed claims.