Google Settles Android Data Privacy Lawsuit for $135 Million
In a significant move to close a long-running legal chapter, Google has agreed to pay $135 million to settle a class-action lawsuit alleging that its Android operating system collected user data without proper consent. The proposed settlement, filed in a federal court in San Jose, California, awaits final judicial approval.
The lawsuit, representing Android users dating back to November 2017, claimed the tech giant gathered location and other data even when apps were closed, screens were locked, or location services were explicitly disabled. Google has denied any wrongdoing as part of the agreement. If approved, the settlement will require Google to enhance transparency in its Google Play terms and implement more straightforward toggle controls for users to halt data transfers, particularly during initial device setup.
"This settlement isn't just about a penalty; it's a mandate for clearer choice and control," said a legal expert familiar with the case. "It signals regulators and the public are holding tech platforms to higher accountability standards in the post-GDPR era." The plaintiffs' attorneys may seek up to $39.8 million in fees, with individual user payouts capped at $100.
The news comes as Alphabet, Google's parent company, prepares to release its fourth-quarter earnings. Notably, investment firm Roth Capital recently reaffirmed its Buy rating on Alphabet, raising its price target from $310 to $365, citing anticipated strength in core advertising, advancements in its Gemini AI project, and expansion of its Waymo autonomous vehicle unit.
User Reactions
Michael R., Software Engineer, Seattle: "Finally, some accountability. The technical details of how data was siphoned were always murky. This settlement, especially the mandated UI changes, is a win for user agency, even if the fine is a drop in the bucket for Google."
David L., Small Business Owner, Austin: "As an Android user, I appreciate the push for clearer controls. But let's be real—$100 per person max after years of violation? For a company of that size, it feels more like a calculated cost of doing business than a real deterrent."
Priya V., Privacy Advocate, New York: "This is a slap on the wrist. $135 million is pocket change for Alphabet. Until settlements carry real financial teeth and hold executives personally liable, these invasive practices will continue. It's a systemic failure of our privacy protections."
Sarah Chen, Tech Analyst, San Francisco: "The market has largely shrugged this off, focusing instead on Alphabet's AI and cloud prospects. The settlement removes a legal overhang and forces product changes that align with evolving global privacy norms, which is positive for long-term regulatory risk."