Google faces a new antitrust trial after ruling declaring search engine a monopoly
One month after a judge declared Google’s search engine an illegal monopoly, the tech giant is defending against another antitrust lawsuit that threatens to break up the company. (Scripps News)
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Consumers who made purchases on the Google Play Store between August 2016 and September 2023 may be eligible for a payout.Eligible users will receive a minimum of $2, with most receiving automatic payments.Payouts are scheduled to begin after the court approves the settlement, which is set for April 30, 2026.
If you’ve used the Google Play store, you may be entitled to cash.
Millions of Google Play users could soon receive a payout from a $700 million settlement over alleged anticompetitive practices. Attorneys general across the U.S., including Ohio AG Dave Yost, say Google overcharged consumers and monopolized app distribution in the settlement. Google has denied any wrongdoing.
Those who bought something on the Google Play Store between August 2016 and September 2023 are eligible for compensation. Here’s what to know about the payout and whether you qualify.
Who qualifies for Google’s $700 million settlement?
Consumers who made purchases on Google Play during the eligibility period (between August 2016 and September 2023) may receive a payment, the settlement website says. This includes purchases in gaming apps, subscriptions, and ad-free versions of apps through Google Play Billing during that period.
Most consumers don’t need to file a claim and will receive payouts automatically. But many settlement participants shouldn’t expect a windfall — payments could be as little as $2.
How much will consumers get?
Eligible users will get at least $2, possibly more, depending on how much they spent on apps or in-app purchases during the eligibility period compared with other consumers.
When will the payouts happen?
Payouts will begin after the settlement is approved in court, which is currently scheduled for April 30, 2026, the Salem Statesman Journal reports. Google will notify recipients through PayPal email or Venmo text message linked to their account.
Those who do not still have the phone number or email connected to their impacted Google Play account or do not have or want to create an account with Venmo or PayPal can go through a supplemental claims process.
How to opt out or object to the Google settlement
If you want to opt out and sue Google separately, you must do so by Feb. 19, 2026. To object to the settlement, you have until Feb. 19, 2026 to file an objection. An approval court hearing is scheduled for April 30, 2026.
Consumers can call 1-866-905-8127 or email info@googleplaystateagantitrustlitigation.com to find out if you’re eligible to receive a payment from the settlement fund.