Google Settles $135M Class Action Over Data Usage Claims

Google has reached a $135 million settlement in a class action lawsuit concerning allegations that its mobile operating system transmitted data without user consent. Individuals in the United States who used Android devices on cellular networks from November 12, 2017, may qualify for compensation.

The lawsuit, filed in 2020, accused Google of sending data back to its servers even when the devices were idle, apps were closed, or the devices were not actively in use, resulting in unintended consumption of users' mobile data. The plaintiffs alleged that Google's data collection practices shifted the cost of data usage onto users, who had to purchase cellular data without clear authorization.

Although Google denies the allegations, it agreed to the settlement to resolve the dispute. Eligible users will be automatically considered for payment and will receive notifications via email or mail containing a notice ID and confirmation code to select their preferred payment method.

The exact payout per user remains uncertain and will depend on the number of valid claims submitted, with an estimated 100 million users potentially eligible.