The apology issued by NGN was limited and did not address many of Harry's allegations against former executives like Brooks, who has denied any wrongdoing.

If the trial proceeds, it will first address broader issues of phone-hacking before focusing on the individual cases of Harry and fellow claimant Tom Watson.

This is a developing news story, and further updates are expected as the situation unfolds.

The legal proceedings are taking place in the Rolls Building in London's law courts, overseen by Mr. Justice Fancourt.

While the full details of the financial settlement remain undisclosed, the case underscores ongoing concerns about media ethics and privacy rights.

Sherborne, representing Harry, indicated that starting the case too soon could jeopardize potential resolutions, a sentiment echoed by NGN's counsel.

NGN defended itself by claiming there are now strong processes in place to prevent unlawful activities, while denying certain pre-trial allegations.

NGN denies the allegations of unlawful information gathering, and the trial is anticipated to last up to 10 weeks.

Harry will not attend the opening day of the trial, reportedly remaining in California.

Prince Harry has reached a settlement in his legal battle against Rupert Murdoch's News Group Newspapers (NGN), which includes an apology related to unlawful actions by The Sun.

This settlement avoids a potentially damaging trial that could have scrutinized the actions of NGN senior executives, including Rebekah Brooks.

Under English law, claimants risk covering their own legal fees if they reject a settlement offer and receive a lower judgment in court.