Millions of Google Play users across the country — including in Ohio — could soon receive cash payments as part of a $700 million settlement over alleged anticompetitive practices by Google.
State attorneys general, including Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost, say Google overcharged consumers and monopolized app distribution through the Google Play Store. Google has denied wrongdoing but agreed to the settlement.
Anyone who made a purchase on the Google Play Store between August 2016 and September 2023 may be eligible for compensation. That includes purchases of apps, in-app items, subscriptions, and ad-free upgrades processed through Google Play Billing.
Most eligible consumers will not need to file a claim. Payments are expected to be issued automatically, though payouts may be small — as little as two dollars — depending on how much each user spent compared to others.
Payouts are expected to begin after court approval, which is scheduled for April 30, 2026. Google will notify eligible users through PayPal or Venmo using the email address or phone number linked to their Google Play account.
Consumers who no longer have access to that contact information, or who do not wish to use PayPal or Venmo, will have the option to go through a supplemental claims process.
Those who wish to opt out of the settlement and pursue their own lawsuit must do so by February 19, 2026. The same deadline applies for filing objections to the settlement.
More information is available by calling 1-866-905-8127 or emailing info@googleplaystateagantitrustlitigation.com.
