Google has reached a preliminary agreement to pay $135 million to resolve a class-action lawsuit accusing the tech giant of secretly consuming users’ cellular data. The settlement addresses allegations that Android devices transferred information to Google servers without explicit user consent, even when users were not actively using their phones.
While Google has not admitted fault, the company is taking steps to increase transparency and give users more control over background data usage. This agreement affects a massive group of users—potentially up to 100 million people in the United States—and marks another significant moment in the ongoing debate over digital privacy and corporate data practices.
Understanding the Allegations
The lawsuit, Taylor v. Google LLC, centers on how Android devices handle data transmission. Plaintiffs argued that Google caused mobile devices to send various types of information to its servers in the background. This activity consumed cellular data without users’ knowledge or permission, often occurring when devices were not connected to Wi-Fi.
Why this matters: For years, consumers have expressed concern over “data harvesting.” This settlement highlights a specific friction point: the hidden costs and privacy implications of background app activity. It raises broader questions about how much control users truly have over their device’s connectivity and data usage.
Changes to Google’s Practices
As part of the settlement, Google is required to make two key changes to its operations:
- Updated Terms of Service: Google will revise its Google Play terms to clearly state that certain data transfers occur passively, even when the device is idle. It will also clarify that cellular data may be used when Wi-Fi is unavailable.
- User Consent and Control: During device setup, users will be asked for explicit consent regarding these background data transfers. Additionally, if a user toggles off the “allow background data usage” option, Google will fully stop collecting data in the background for those specific services.
These changes aim to shift the balance from implicit, hidden data usage to explicit, user-aware permissions.
Who Is Eligible for Compensation?
To qualify for a payment under this settlement, you must meet all four of the following criteria:
- You are a living individual residing in the United States.
- You used an Android mobile device that had a cellular data plan.
- You used that device between November 12, 2017, and the date the settlement receives final court approval.
- You are not already part of the Csupo v. Google LLC lawsuit, which is a separate settlement specifically for California residents.
Note: Even if you did not receive a notification letter or email, you may still be eligible. You can verify your status by calling 1-844-655-4255, emailing [email protected], or mailing a request to the settlement administrator in Philadelphia.
How to Claim Your Payment
The settlement website is now live, allowing eligible claimants to register their payment preferences. Here is what you need to know:
- Registration: You will need a Notice ID and Confirmation Code, which were mailed or emailed to eligible claimants.
- Deadline: You can add or change your payment method until the final approval hearing on June 23.
- Objections: If you wish to object to the settlement or exclude yourself from it, you must do so by May 29.
Important: If you are eligible but take no action, you will still receive a payment. However, failing to provide payment details may increase the risk of the payment being lost or difficult to recover.
How Much Will You Receive?
The exact payout per person is not yet determined. The total fund of $135 million must first cover administrative costs, taxes, and attorney fees. After these deductions:
- The administrator will attempt to distribute the remaining funds equally among all valid claimants.
- The maximum potential payout is $100 per person.
- If funds remain after initial distributions and it is economically feasible, they may be redistributed to previous claimants. Otherwise, leftover funds will go to a court-approved organization.
Payments will only be issued after the court grants final approval and any appeals are resolved.
Conclusion
This settlement represents a significant financial acknowledgment of user concerns regarding background data usage on Android devices. While individual payouts may be modest, the requirement for greater transparency and user consent sets a new standard for how tech companies must communicate data practices. For users, it underscores the importance of reviewing device settings and understanding how personal data is collected and transmitted.
