Google agrees to $135 million settlement and new data-use disclosures for Android users

Federal magistrate Virginia DeMarchi gave final approval to a class-action settlement that obliges Google to pay $135 million to Android users accused of undisclosed background data transfers. The class, defined as anyone who used an Android device online since Nov. 12, 2017, includes more than 129 million members, resulting in individual payouts of under one dollar. Beyond the monetary component, Google must insert a new “Use of cellular data” disclosure in the Android setup process and update Google Play’s terms to inform users that cellular data may be used for mandatory background communications, while disabling a misleading toggle that suggested otherwise.

Plaintiffs sought to stop the data transfers, but the court ruled that the injunction should focus on disclosure, as the transfers are deemed necessary for device functionality and security. Class attorneys were awarded about $28.5 million in fees, and named plaintiffs received $5,000 each. Neither Google nor the class lawyers responded to requests for comment.