Android users could receive part of a $700 million settlement over Google Play Store policies

Android users could receive part of a $700 million settlement over Google Play Store policies،

According to Bloomberg, state attorneys general had alleged that Google used anticompetitive tactics to force app developers to have their in-app payments processed through Google's platform, resulting in a reduction of those payments by 15 at 30%. This case was originally filed in 2021, as was a separate class-action lawsuit that was filed on behalf of nearly 21 million consumers and complained that Google's 30% reduction in Play Store transactions had forced prices of applications to increase.

The agreement was reached with the states in September, but the terms of the financial agreement have not been made public until now. Google also reached an agreement with Match Group on Play Store policies. Match Group owns and operates several dating apps, including Tinder, Match.com, Meetic, OkCupid, Hinge, Plenty of Fish and OurTime.

Alphabet to fund $630 million consumer account – Android users could receive part of $700 million settlement over Google Play Store policies

Alphabet will fund a consumer account with $630 million

A statement made by Wilson White, Google's vice president for government affairs and public policy, said: “This agreement builds on the choice and flexibility of Android, maintains strong security protections, and preserves the ability to Google to be competitive. » As part of the settlement, Google said it will make it easier for Android users to download apps directly from developers. A lawyer for the states noted that “no other U.S. antitrust agency has yet been able to obtain remedies of this magnitude from Google.”

The settlement requires that $630 million of the $700 million paid by Alphabet be used to create a pooled fund to benefit consumers. The remaining $70 million will be used to pay states for penalties, disgorgement, restitution and fees. Consumers with claims against Google will receive at least $2 each from the settlement and could get more depending on the amount they spent on the Google Play Store between August 16, 2016 and September 30, 2023.

The settlement still requires a judge's approval.