Prince Harry has secured a major legal victory after News Group Newspapers (NGN), publisher of The Sun and the defunct News of the World, settled a lawsuit alleging illegal actions.

NGN admitted for the first time that The Sun engaged in unlawful practices, including accessing private information about Harry and his late mother, Princess Diana, between 1996 and 2011. The settlement, reportedly worth over 10 million pounds ($12.33 million), includes significant damages and legal fees.

NGN also issued a public apology, acknowledging serious intrusion into Harry's private life and apologizing for the impact of its coverage on both him and his mother.

NGN's apology was specifically for the actions of private investigators, not the journalists involved.

The settlement marks the conclusion of a high-profile legal battle, which had been set for trial earlier this week.

Harry’s case, alongside former lawmaker Tom Watson’s similar lawsuit, has highlighted allegations of widespread wrongdoing at The Sun, including during the tenure of former editor Rebekah Brooks, who is now CEO of News UK. Despite the apology, NGN's statement did not address claims of cover-ups or wrongdoing by senior executives.

The settlement is expected to conclude the legal actions, as NGN emphasizes that new claims may face dismissal.