Some iPhone owners could get up to $95 payment after Apple agrees to settle case for $250 million – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Unsplash)
Apple reached a $250 million settlement in a class-action lawsuit accusing the company of misleading consumers about artificial intelligence features on recent iPhone models.[1][2] Nevada residents who purchased eligible devices during a specific period stand to benefit, with potential payments ranging from $25 to $95 per phone. The agreement received preliminary court approval this week, marking a significant resolution to claims over delayed Siri enhancements.[3]
What Sparked the False Advertising Claims?
The lawsuit stemmed from Apple’s promotions ahead of the iPhone 16 launch in September 2024. At its Worldwide Developers Conference the previous June, the company previewed Apple Intelligence, including a more personalized Siri capable of drawing on user context and acting across apps.[2] Advertisements labeled the new iPhones as built for these capabilities, yet many features arrived late or remained unavailable.[4]
Plaintiffs argued that this created false expectations, prompting purchases based on promises of immediate advanced AI performance. Filed in federal court in March 2025 as Landsheft v. Apple Inc., the case highlighted how marketing saturated media without matching product reality at release.[3] Regulators like the National Advertising Division had already urged Apple to adjust certain claims, and the company pulled at least one ad featuring the upgraded Siri.[2]
Which Devices and Buyers Qualify?
Eligibility centers on U.S. purchases of specific high-end models between June 10, 2024, and March 29, 2025. This window captures early iPhone 16 pre-orders and sales through early 2025, before fuller Apple Intelligence rollouts.[1]
The covered devices include:
- iPhone 15 Pro
- iPhone 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 16
- iPhone 16 Plus
- iPhone 16 Pro
- iPhone 16 Pro Max
Nevada buyers need proof of purchase, such as serial numbers or Apple account details, to submit claims. Multiple devices per person qualify, potentially multiplying payouts.[3]
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Payment Amounts and Fund Breakdown
The $250 million all-cash fund covers claimant payments after deducting attorneys’ fees and administration costs. Initial estimates set payouts at $25 per eligible device, adjustable up to $95 based on total claims filed.[4] Fewer submissions mean higher individual amounts; high volume could reduce them.
Courts will finalize fees and allocations post-notice period. This structure ensures fair distribution while resolving the matter efficiently for all parties involved.[1]
Timeline and Claim Process Ahead
Preliminary approval came on May 5, 2026, from the federal court overseeing the case. Notices will go out to potential class members within 45 days, detailing how to file.[4] A settlement administrator website launches soon, expected in weeks.
Buyers should monitor email, mail, or ads for instructions. The plaintiff’s law firm, Clarkson Law Firm, offers an FAQ at their site, with court dockets available via CourtListener.[3] Final approval follows objection and fairness hearings, after which payments distribute.
Apple’s Stance and Broader Context
Apple denied wrongdoing throughout, emphasizing good-faith compliance with advertising rules. A spokesperson stated: “Since the launch of Apple Intelligence, we have introduced dozens of features across many languages that are integrated across Apple’s platforms… 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.”[2]
Features like Visual Intelligence, Writing Tools, and Genmoji have since debuted, though the sued-for Siri upgrades face further delays. This settlement joins others, such as a prior Siri privacy case, underscoring scrutiny on tech giants’ AI promises.[1]
For Nevada’s many iPhone users, the deal offers tangible recourse without admitting fault. As rollout continues, it reminds consumers to verify feature timelines before major purchases. Check your records – eligibility could mean real savings on your next upgrade.
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