Apple has agreed to pay $95 million to settle a class-action lawsuit alleging that its Siri voice assistant recorded users’ private conversations without consent. The lawsuit, filed in 2019, claimed that Apple contractors “regularly hear sensitive medical information, drug conversations, or the sounds of some couples having sex” while performing quality control checks. Siri, designed to activate with the wake word “Hey, Siri,” was reportedly triggered unintentionally by other sounds, such as thunder or loud noises.
Apple’s Response and Apology
When the accusations surfaced, Apple stated that contractors only heard “a small portion of the recordings.” The company later issued a formal apology and announced that it would no longer store Siri audio recordings. This measure was part of an effort to address user privacy concerns and improve trust.
If the court approves the settlement, U.S. customers who owned or purchased specific Apple devices with Siri support between September 17, 2014, and December 31, 2024, could qualify for compensation. Eligible devices include iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches, MacBooks, iMacs, HomePods, iPod touches, and Apple TVs. Claimants must also attest that they unintentionally activated Siri during a private conversation. However, individual payouts are expected to be modest, potentially not exceeding $20, depending on the number of claims, notes NIXSolutions.
Broader Implications for Tech Privacy
Apple is not the only tech giant facing scrutiny over privacy breaches. A separate lawsuit involving Google remains ongoing, addressing similar concerns with its smart devices, including Google Home, Home Mini, Home Max, and Pixel smartphones. A victory in that case could also lead to compensation for affected users.
As these cases progress, they highlight the growing debate over user privacy and technology. We’ll keep you updated on developments, particularly as new settlements or rulings emerge.