Apple Settles AI Lawsuit, iPhone 15 and 16 Buyers To Get Compensation

New Delhi: Apple has agreed to a $250 million settlement in a class action lawsuit in the United States over claims that the company promoted artificial intelligence features on the iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 that were not fully available at launch.

The lawsuit accused Apple of misleading customers through advertisements highlighting its “Apple Intelligence” platform, particularly advanced Siri capabilities that were showcased during product promotions but allegedly failed to arrive as promised.

According to court filings submitted in a California federal court, eligible customers who purchased an iPhone 15 or iPhone 16 between June 2024 and March 2025 could receive payouts ranging from $25 to $95 under the proposed settlement. Apple, however, has denied any wrongdoing while agreeing to resolve the case.

The legal complaint argued that Apple marketed AI-powered features as a major selling point despite several tools either being delayed or still unavailable. Lawyers representing consumers claimed the company created unrealistic expectations around a more advanced Siri assistant capable of functioning as a personalised AI helper.

In response, Apple said the case focused only on the rollout timeline of a limited number of features within the broader Apple Intelligence ecosystem. The company added that the settlement allows it to remain focused on developing innovative products and services.

The lawsuit also alleged that Apple intensified its AI marketing push to compete with growing pressure from artificial intelligence companies such as OpenAI and Anthropic, amid increasing competition in the tech industry’s AI race.

Critics had questioned whether Apple’s AI announcements moved ahead of actual product readiness. The complaint specifically stated that buyers received the iPhone 16 without the full suite of Apple Intelligence features that had been heavily promoted during launch campaigns.

The proposed settlement still requires court approval before payments can be issued to eligible consumers.