Apple is facing mounting legal trouble after the company failed to deliver on its promises of an upgraded Siri voice assistant. The new and enhanced version of Siri was expected to launch alongside the latest iPhone 16 models, touted as part of Apple’s push into generative AI features.
However, the tech giant encountered numerous technical challenges, leading to a delay of these promised features until next year. This has sparked frustration among customers who were persuaded to upgrade to the new iPhone based on marketing claims.
The legal backlash has already begun, with Apple hit by two class-action lawsuits in both the U.S. and Canada. Plaintiffs claim that Apple’s marketing misled them into purchasing the iPhone 16 models under false pretenses, leading them to believe that the updated Siri features would be available immediately.
One lawsuit, filed in a California federal court this week, accuses Apple of violating false advertising and unfair competition laws. The plaintiffs argue that they would not have upgraded to the iPhone 16 had they known the new Siri features would not be available as promised. This legal action follows the removal of an advertisement featuring actress Bella Ramsey, which showcased the upgraded Siri in action.
Meanwhile, a second class-action lawsuit was filed last week in British Columbia, Canada. While Apple has not yet commented on the situation, both lawsuits are seeking damages, which will be determined at trial.
If the courts rule in favor of the plaintiffs, Apple could be forced to compensate customers who purchased the iPhone 16 with the expectation of receiving the delayed Siri features. The case is still ongoing, and a final verdict has yet to be reached. Stay tuned for updates as the legal proceedings continue.
Related topics: