Google has agreed to pay $135 million to settle a class-action lawsuit claiming its Android operating system transmitted data from mobile devices without users’ consent. The settlement covers users who connected Android devices to the internet via cellular networks from November 12, 2017, onward.
The lawsuit, initially filed in 2020, alleged that Android devices sent user data to Google secretly and continuously, even when devices were idle or apps were closed. This data transmission reportedly consumed users’ cellular data without their knowledge or permission. Plaintiffs argued that this effectively forced users to subsidize Google’s data collection.
Google denies any wrongdoing but has agreed to the settlement to resolve the case.
How to claim a payment
Eligible Android users who do not opt out will receive settlements. Those users are expected to receive personalized notices via mail or email containing a notice ID and confirmation code. To claim their payment, users must visit the official settlement website and enter these details along with their preferred payment method.
The settlement administrator will attempt to pay users even if they do not submit payment details. However, users risk losing their payment if the administrator cannot complete the process without confirmation.
Payment amounts and eligibility
Approximately 100 million people may qualify for payments. The total $135 million fund will be divided among claimants after deductions for attorneys’ fees, taxes, and expenses. Consequently, individual payments are expected to be modest, though the exact amounts will depend on the number of claims filed.
Why it matters
The settlement addresses growing privacy concerns over data collection by technology companies. It highlights issues related to user consent and transparency in how Android devices handle personal information, especially given the widespread use of Google’s operating system worldwide.
Background
Android, developed by Google, is the most widely used mobile operating system globally. Past scrutiny has centered on the platform’s data handling practices, raising legal and regulatory questions about digital privacy and consumer rights. This settlement marks a significant legal resolution of data transmission concerns related to Android devices.
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