New settlement documents have disclosed significant information regarding the Google Play Store lawsuit, specifying when and how much impacted users will obtain. The settlement, which deals with antitrust claims against Google, comprises a $700 million fund intended for distribution among eligible users. Individuals who made purchases on the Google Play Store from August 16, 2016, to September 30, 2023, while living in the U.S., Puerto Rico, or the Virgin Islands, will automatically receive no less than $2 in their PayPal or Venmo accounts. The precise amount may differ based on personal spending during the designated timeframe.
The settlement arises from a lawsuit initiated by attorneys general from all 50 U.S. states, Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands, alleging that Google has monopolized app distribution and in-app billing. While Google contends there was no misconduct, the company has consented to resolve the case.
Eligible users need not undertake any steps to obtain their payments, as these will be processed automatically. Notifications will be dispatched via email or text to the contact details linked with users’ Google Play accounts once payments are prepared.
Important dates concerning the settlement include February 19, 2026, as the cutoff for exclusions and objections, and April 30, 2026, for the fairness hearing. The fairness hearing will ascertain whether the settlement receives approval, with payments anticipated to begin shortly afterwards.
