Google has agreed to pay $700 million and loosen key restrictions in its Play Store as part of a sweeping antitrust settlement with U.S. states and consumers. Under the agreement, about 102 million U.S. consumers will be eligible to share $630 million, while the remaining $70 million will go to participating states.
The settlement resolves long-running allegations that Google used its control over Android app distribution and in-app billing to suppress competition and overcharge users. It follows a recent federal jury verdict that found Google’s app marketplace to be an illegal monopoly in a separate case brought by Epic Games—though Google is appealing that decision.
How Consumer Payments Will Work
Most eligible consumers, around 71.4 million people, will not need to file a claim. Payments will be distributed automatically, likely via PayPal or Venmo, based on how much users spent on apps and in-app purchases through the Google Play Store between August 16, 2016, and September 30, 2023.
Each eligible user is guaranteed at least $2, with higher payments possible depending on spending history. Payouts are expected in 2026, following final court approval.
Changes to Google Play
Beyond financial compensation, the settlement requires Google to modify its Play Store practices for several years. Key changes include:
- Expanding user choice billing, allowing developers to use third-party payment systems alongside Google’s own
- Giving developers greater freedom to inform users about alternative payment options and promotions
- Simplifying sideloading, making it easier for users to install apps from third-party stores or websites
Google says these changes preserve Android’s openness while maintaining security protections.
Reactions
New York Attorney General Letitia James said the deal holds Google accountable for abusing its market power and restricting competition. Google, meanwhile, said it was pleased to resolve the lawsuit and emphasized ongoing competition from Apple and other app ecosystems.
Epic Games criticized the settlement as insufficient, arguing it fails to address the core of Google’s anticompetitive behavior. Epic plans to pursue stronger remedies in its own case against the company.
Key Dates And Eligibility
- Who’s eligible: U.S. consumers who made purchases on Google Play between August 16, 2016, and September 30, 2023
- Minimum payout: $2
- Claim required: No
- Opt-out / objection deadline: February 19, 2026
- Final approval hearing: April 30, 2026
The Bigger Picture
The Google Play settlement is one of several major antitrust battles facing Google. The company is also defending itself against lawsuits targeting its search dominance and digital advertising business, underscoring growing regulatory pressure on Big Tech’s market power.
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