Liable Google to Pay $135 Million in Android Data Transfer Lawsuit Settlement

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Google to Pay $135 ‍Million in Data Collection Settlement

Google Settles Data Collection Lawsuit for $135 Million

Published: 2026/01/28 16:40:00

Google has agreed to a $135 million settlement to resolve a‍ class-action lawsuit alleging the company illegally collected users’ cellular data without their explicit consent. The preliminary settlement, filed late Tuesday in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of ⁢California, requires court approval. This agreement brings an‍ end to a legal battle that began in November 2020 and was scheduled for trial‍ in August 2024.

The Core of the Lawsuit

Plaintiffs in the case argued that Google’s Android operating system continued to collect⁤ cellular data even when⁤ users had disabled‍ location services, locked their screens, or closed applications. This data, they claimed, was used⁢ for product progress and targeted advertising, constituting an unlawful “conversion” – ⁣the wrongful taking of property. The lawsuit specifically focused on data collection practices occurring since November 12, 2017.

Key Terms⁣ of the Settlement

While denying any wrongdoing, Google has agreed to several key changes as part of the settlement:

  • Consent for Data Transfer: Google will no ⁢longer transfer cellular data without obtaining explicit consent from Android users during phone setup.
  • Easier Opt-Out Options: The company will simplify the process for users to disable data transfers through toggles within their device settings.
  • Transparent Disclosure: Google will ⁤clearly disclose data transfer practices in its Google Play terms of service.

Financial Implications

The $135 million settlement will be distributed among class members, ‍with a cap of $100 per person. Legal experts estimate that ⁣potential damages could have reached $1.05 billion,making the $135 million payout a significant outcome for the plaintiffs [1]. The lawyers representing the plaintiffs may seek up to $39.8 million, or 29.5%⁣ of the settlement fund, for legal fees.

Google’s Response

In a ⁤statement, Google spokesperson Jose Castaneda emphasized that ‍the settlement resolves a case ⁢based on ‍a mischaracterization of‍ standard industry practices. ⁣ “We are pleased to resolve⁣ this case, which mischaracterized standard industry practices that keep⁣ Android safe,”⁤ Castaneda said. “We’re providing additional disclosures to give people more facts about how our services work.”

What This Means for Android Users

This settlement represents a win for user privacy and openness.

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