In an unprecedented legal move, the Attorneys General from all 50 states, along with the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, have filed a lawsuit against Google. The suit alleges that the company has engaged in monopolistic practices regarding content on the Google Play Store. As part of the legal proceedings, Google has proposed a settlement of $700 million to resolve the claims without admitting any liability or wrongdoing.
The lawsuit asserts that consumers who accessed the Google Play Store between August 16, 2016, and September 30, 2023, paid inflated prices for apps and other digital goods. This allegation is grounded in claims that Google violated both federal and state antitrust and consumer protection laws. The proposed settlement aims to provide restitution to affected users who made purchases during the specified period.
Eligibility and Claims Process
Individuals eligible to file a claim under the proposed settlement include anyone in the United States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands who made purchases through Google Play Billing. This includes in-game purchases, subscriptions, and ad-free versions of apps within the stated dates.
According to the settlement details, most affected individuals will not need to submit a claim. However, those who wish to opt out of the settlement to retain their right to pursue legal action against Google must do so by February 19, 2026.
Claimants who are approved will receive a minimum payment of $2, although the final amount will depend on the total amount spent in the app store and the number of eligible claimants.
Next Steps for Approval
The settlement is subject to judicial approval, with a hearing scheduled for April 30, 2026. At this hearing, a judge will determine whether to approve or deny the proposed settlement. Until then, affected consumers are encouraged to stay informed through the settlement website for updates and additional information on how to navigate the claims process.
This legal action marks a significant moment in the ongoing scrutiny of large tech companies and their business practices, especially regarding the influence they wield over digital marketplaces. As the case progresses, it remains to be seen how the outcome will impact both consumers and the broader landscape of online commerce.
