Key Takeaways:
- Google agreed to a $135M Android settlement over unauthorized cellular data collection.
- Millions of U.S. Android users since 2017 are eligible for small payouts.
- Eligible users must act by May 29 to object or pursue lawsuits.
Millions of U.S. Android users may qualify for payments from the Google Android $135M Settlement over claims the company collected cellular data without permission between 2017 and 2026.
Google agreed to settle a federal class-action lawsuit that accused the company of transferring Android users’ data through cellular networks without consent, even when phones were idle or apps were closed. Google denied wrongdoing but agreed to pay $135 million and make changes to its disclosures and settings under the Google Android $135M Settlement.
The lawsuit covers people in the United States who used an Android device with a cellular data plan to access the internet at any point since Nov. 12, 2017. California residents involved in a separate case, Taylor v. Google LLC, are excluded.
“We are pleased to resolve this case, which mischaracterized standard industry practices that keep Android safe,” Google spokesperson José Castaneda said in a statement. “We’re providing additional disclosures to give people more information about how our services work.”
Users May Receive Small Payments
The exact amount each person receives has not been determined because payments depend on how many people participate in the Google Android $135M Settlement. Individual payouts are capped at $100, though estimates suggest most users may receive between about $1 and $1.50.
Court documents estimate that more than 100 million Android users could qualify for payments. Attorney fees and administrative costs may reduce the total amount available to consumers under the Google Android $135M Settlement.
Users do not need to submit a traditional claim form. Eligible consumers who receive a notice by email or mail can choose a payment method, including PayPal, Venmo, Zelle, ACH transfer or a virtual Mastercard. Those who do not receive a notice may contact the settlement administrator to confirm eligibility.
Key Deadlines Arrive in May and June
People who want to object to the settlement or keep the right to sue Google separately must act by May 29. A final court hearing is scheduled for June 23 in California. Payments will be distributed only if the settlement receives final approval of the Google Android $135M Settlement.
The case is one of several recent privacy-related settlements involving major technology companies. Earlier this year, Google agreed to pay $68 million to settle claims involving its voice assistant, while Apple agreed to a $95 million Siri-related settlement in 2024.
The Android case stems from claims that Google collected cellular data even when location services were turned off, apps were closed and phones were locked. Plaintiffs argued the company used the data to improve products and support advertising.
