Apple Settles Siri Spying Lawsuit for $95M Without Admitting Guilt

Well well well, the champions of privacy were caught with their hands in the cookie jar. Apple prides itself on respecting users’ privacy but apparently, they are not above taking a little peek. 

I guess it’s all about relativity. Apple compares itself to Google and if you think about it, it’s like comparing yourself to the devil and claiming you aren’t that bad. No one could possibly spy on users quite like Google. 

Apple settles lawsuit

Apple has agreed to pay $95 million to settle a lawsuit alleging unauthorized listening through Siri, without admitting any wrongdoing.

So, it’s one of those ‘I’m paying so you go away but I admit nothing’ kinds of settlements. 

The lawsuit claims that Apple recorded users without consent and shared these recordings with advertisers, targeting them based on conversations.

Each claimant in the class action could receive up to $20 for each Siri-enabled device owned between 2014 and 2019.

A decision on the preliminary settlement is proposed for February 14, 2025, in a Northern California court.

Apple has faced multiple class action lawsuits recently, including a $500 million settlement for slowing down iPhones and a $490 million settlement in the UK.

By settling, Apple avoids the risk of a potentially larger payout from a court case while maintaining its stance of no wrongdoing.

Settling gives the appearance of guilt but as some wise man once said, “I’d rather look guilty with my freedom than maintain innocence behind bars.” It’s pragmatic to settle, the courtroom is as unpredictable as it can get. 

So, if you’re that Apple lover who cannot see the company listening in on your conversations and telling advertisers, there’s still a chance that you’re right. So, as you were.