Eligible buyers are expected to receive about $25 per device, although payments could rise to as much as $95 depending on how many claims are submitted. Because the settlement fund is fixed, the final amount distributed to each claimant will depend on participation.
The claims website opened September 21. Apple and the settlement administrator are also sending email or postal notices to customers identified as potentially eligible.
The lawsuit stemmed from Apple’s marketing around Apple Intelligence and an upgraded version of Siri. Apple promoted the iPhone 16 as hardware designed for its new AI features, but several capabilities demonstrated as part of that push were not ready when the devices arrived.
Apple Intelligence itself began reaching customers later, with initial features arriving through iOS 18.1. Those included tools such as Writing Tools, Genmoji, Clean Up, Visual Intelligence and Live Translation. The more advanced Siri functionality at the center of the dispute took considerably longer and eventually arrived with iOS 27.
The proposed settlement stated that Apple was accused of creating misleading expectations about when certain enhanced Siri features would become available. Apple has not admitted wrongdoing.
“Apple has reached a settlement to resolve claims related to the availability of two additional features. We resolved this matter to stay focused on doing what we do best, delivering the most innovative products and services to our users,” an Apple spokesperson said.
The court granted preliminary approval to the settlement on July 17. A later order on August 13 moved the final approval hearing forward from September 29, 2027, to February 24, 2027.
Consumers have until December 21 to submit claims. If the settlement receives final approval, payments are expected to begin within a 60-day period after the February hearing, subject to the court schedule and any extensions.
The case ultimately centers on the difference between features presented during Apple’s AI rollout and the capabilities available to customers when they bought eligible iPhones. Rather than continuing toward a trial over those allegations, Apple agreed to resolve the dispute through the $250 million settlement.
This analysis is based on reporting from CNET.
Image courtesy of OpenClassActions.com.
This article was generated with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy and quality.
