Site launched for iPhone users to check if they can receive payout from $250 million Apple AI settlement
There's been a huge update for Apple users, which could land them a few extra dollars in their pockets.
The tech giant has agreed to settle a lawsuit which accused it of 'bait and switch tactics' while promoting the release of the iPhone 16.
Back in 2024, Apple said the phone would have cutting-edge new AI features and an enhanced Siri, the latter of which was promoted in an ad starring Game of Thrones' Bella Ramsey.
The lawsuit claims Apple promised the new, improved Siri would be able to 'perform a wide range of sophisticated tasks such as performing multi-step tasks across a user’s apps', such as finding a podcast mentioned in a text.
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The filing went on: "The problem is, none of it was true. The iPhone 16 was delivered to consumers without “Apple Intelligence,” and Enhanced Siri never came."
In May, Apple agreed to a multi-million dollar payout to terminate the lawsuit. The company denies the allegations and the settlement is not an admission of wrongdoing.
Earlier this year, an Apple spokesperson said: "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."
Who can submit a claim?
Those who purchased the following models may be eligible for a payout:
- iPhone 15 Pro
- iPhone 15 Pro Max
- Any iPhone 16 model
Customers who bought the cell phones between June 10, 2024 and March 29, 2025 are eligible to start their claim.
Only those in the United States are eligible, who have also purchased their device in the country 'for purposes other than resale' between the dates mentioned.
How do I file a claim?
Those who fall into this category are advised to visit smartphoneaisettlement.com, and simply click 'File a Claim'.
There are two separate claims, one for individuals, and another for businesses or entities.
Once this is clicked on, customers are asked whether they have a Claim ID and pin, or not.
It's advised to have your iPhone's serial number to hand, which can be found by going to Settings, About, and then Serial Number.
However, those who may not have the cell phone anymore don't have to worry. The serial number isn't a necessity, as those without it will be able to file their claim by using their phone number along with their Apple Account.
The site states: "Apple has agreed to pay $250 million into a settlement fund. Settlement Class Members who personally submit a valid Claim Form will receive a payment of $25 per Eligible Device."
However, this may be increased pro rata, to a maximum of $95 per Eligible Device and provides for a $250 million Total Settlement Amount, covering 36 million devices in the US.
Those who are eligible must act fairly quickly, as they only have until December 21 to submit a claim.
You must be the original purchaser to claim any funds back.
Funds won't be released until next year, however, with Apple's final approval hearing scheduled for February 24, 2027.
Topics: Apple, iPhone, Artificial Intelligence
Kiesha Dosanjh