Google might Venmo you a couple bucks this spring in Play Store settlement

[phillynews215]

TL;DR

• Google settled a lawsuit over monopolizing Android app distribution for $700 million in 2023.
• Payouts should start this spring, with affected users eligible for at least $2 via Venmo or PayPal.
• Payouts will mostly be automatic, but users who can’t receive automatic payments have other options.

A couple of years ago, Google settled a lawsuit brought by US states that accused the company of holding an illegal monopoly on Android app distribution, using its position to overcharge users for apps and in-app purchases. Despite Google denying wrongdoing, that settlement is set to pay out $700 million this spring. If you’re owed a cut, you probably don’t have to do much to get it.

As reported today by ZDNET, settlement payments are on track to be distributed soon after a fairness hearing scheduled for April 30 of next year. Owners of Google accounts in all 50 states, Washington DC, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands who made purchases on the Play Store between 2016 and 2023 are included in the settlement. Payments should be distributed automatically.




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