Google Pays £107 Million to Android Users for Unwanted Data Use Since 2014

Google is paying out £107 million, which is about $135 million USD, to Android users. This is to settle claims about data use.
By Newsroom | Technology, Consumer Rights |

A substantial settlement, amounting to £107 million (or $135 million USD), is being distributed to eligible Android users. The resolution stems from accusations that Google LLC allowed Android devices to transmit cellular data without explicit user consent, even when the devices were idle, apps were closed, or Wi-Fi was active.

The core of the dispute revolves around claims that personal data was collected and sent to Google over cellular networks during periods when users were not actively interacting with their devices. This alleged passive data transmission consumed users' cellular data allowances.

Automatic Payments and User Action

Most eligible individuals are slated to receive an automatic payment. These payments are intended to reach class members who have not actively opted out of the settlement. While a formal claim form is not required, recipients are strongly advised to confirm their preferred payment method on the official settlement website. Failing to do so carries the risk that payments may not be successfully delivered. A notice ID and confirmation code may be sent via email or mail to eligible users.

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Google Is Paying Out £107 Million Because Android Allegedly Sent Your Data Without Asking — Here Is How to Claim Your Share - 1

The Allegations at Hand

The class-action lawsuit alleges that data collection persisted even when users had:

  • Closed Google's applications.

  • Disabled location-sharing features.

  • Locked their device screens.

Google has maintained its position, asserting that it has not admitted to any intentional wrongdoing or fault in the matter. The court itself has not made a definitive ruling on the validity of the plaintiffs' allegations.

Eligibility and Exclusions

To qualify for the settlement, individuals must have used mobile devices running the Android operating system to access the internet via cellular networks within the United States since November 2014. However, some users may be excluded from this particular settlement. This includes individuals who are part of a separate, concurrent lawsuit in California addressing similar claims.

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Background of the Dispute

This settlement is a resolution to a federal class-action lawsuit that accused Google of utilizing Android users' paid cellular data without adequate disclosure or obtaining proper consent. The case highlights ongoing tensions between technology companies' data collection practices and user privacy expectations. The settlement website has been made available, with official notices confirming the terms and distribution process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is Google paying £107 million to Android users?
Google is paying this amount to settle claims that Android devices used cellular data without user permission, even when idle or apps were closed, since November 2014.
Q: Who gets the £107 million from Google?
Eligible Android users in the US who accessed the internet via cellular networks since November 2014 can receive a payment. Most will get it automatically.
Q: What were the main accusations against Google?
The lawsuit claimed Google collected and sent personal data over cellular networks when devices were not in use, consuming users' data plans, even when apps were closed or location sharing was off.
Q: What does Google say about the data use allegations?
Google has stated it did not admit to any intentional wrongdoing or fault in the matter, and the court has not ruled on the claims' validity.
Q: How can I get my payment from the Google settlement?
Most eligible users will receive an automatic payment. It is recommended to check the official settlement website to confirm your payment method and ensure successful delivery.
Q: Am I eligible for the Google settlement payment?
You are likely eligible if you used an Android device to access the internet via cellular networks in the US since November 2014, unless you are part of a separate, similar lawsuit in California.