Google settlement: 102 million people eligible for payout; do you qualify?
Google will pay some $700 million as part of a settlement related to charges for the tech company’s Google Play Store.
According to the settlement terms, Google will pay $630 million in restitution to some 100 million consumers who made purchases on the Google Play Store between August 2016 and September 2023. Another $70 million will go to states, including Alabama, involved in the suit. Attorneys general from every state sued Google in 2021 alleging it monopolized Android app distribution and in-app payment process.
“Our settlement holds Google accountable,” said Attorney General Marshall, “and makes a strong statement to big tech companies that they, too, must comply with our laws which are guided by a capitalistic free market, and treat consumers fairly.”
Eligible customers will get at least $2 with additional payments possible depending on the spending through Google Play.
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People eligible for restitution do not have to submit a claim and will receive automatic payments through PayPal or Venmo, or they can elect to receive a check or electronic transfer. More details about the payment will be forthcoming.
The settlement also requires Google to change some business practices, including the use of in-app billing systems other than Google Play, for at least five years.