Apple, a company known for its strong stance on privacy, has agreed to pay $95 million to settle a lawsuit accusing it of violating user trust. Based on information from AP News, the lawsuit claimed that Apple’s Siri recorded conversations without users’ consent.

The case alleged that Siri was activated without the trigger words “Hey Siri,” capturing private conversations through Apple devices. According to the lawsuit, these recordings were shared with advertisers to target users with tailored marketing campaigns.

This legal battle questioned Apple’s commitment to privacy, which CEO Tim Cook has consistently described as a “fundamental human right.” Based on the AP News report, Apple has not admitted any wrongdoing in agreeing to the settlement.

The proposed agreement was filed in a California federal court. It awaits approval from U.S. District Judge Jeffrey White, with a hearing scheduled for February 14. If approved, consumers who owned eligible devices between September 2014 and December 2023 could file claims.

Eligible consumers may receive up to $20 per device, with a maximum of five devices per individual. Court documents estimate that only 3% to 5% of eligible users are likely to file claims, potentially affecting the final payout amounts.

The $95 million settlement represents a small portion of the $705 billion Apple has earned in profits since 2014. According to AP News, attorneys representing the consumers may request up to $29.6 million of the settlement to cover legal fees.

SOURCE: APNEWS | PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK