A US class action lawsuit against Apple for allegedly using Siri conversation recordings for targeted advertising has been settled for 815 million rupees ($95 million).
Despite the settlement, Apple denied all accusations, leaving Siri users concerned about their privacy.
The proposed settlement includes 1,700 rupees ($20) per Siri-enabled device for thousands of affected users.
US class action lawsuit against Apple settled for Rs 815 million
The case began as a result of a complaint filed in 2021. The first lawsuit was filed in February, followed by a class action lawsuit in September of the same year.
The original lawsuit, which involved allegations that Apple contractors examined Siri recordings to enhance the Assistant, was dropped due to insufficient evidence.
Users claimed that even if a “Hey Siri” command or a similar phrase unintentionally activated Siri, it was recording the conversation.
According to one whistleblower, private conversations with doctors about surgical procedures led to targeted ads on the same subject.
After private discussions unrelated to Siri, two more accusers claimed they received endorsements for ads for Pit Viper sunglasses and Air Jordan sneakers.
Even if Siri was activated inadvertently, the plaintiffs alleged that Apple secretly recorded these conversations.
Apple denied the charges but provided no data or evidence.
Apple denied the charges, but throughout the lawsuit it did not provide any data or evidence to support its denials.
The settlement covers Siri recordings made between September 17, 2014 and December 31, 2024.
Apple plans to open a portal where consumers can submit claims, which must be submitted by May 15, 2025, to begin paying.
Apple’s decision to settle the lawsuit has received mixed reactions, with some wondering why the company chose to settle despite denying the accusations.
Apple has previously sought justice through settlements in high-profile lawsuits, including those against Epic Games, Spotify, and Google.
Apple’s decision to settle rather than pursue further litigation may have been influenced by company considerations such as high legal costs, reputational risk, and other factors.
The settlement highlights the ongoing debate over user privacy and trust in Apple’s management of personal information.
