Google Android Users: Payouts Coming Soon!

Android users who have owned their devices for the past nine years may be eligible for payouts from a $135 million settlement. This resolution stems from a class-action lawsuit alleging Google transferred user data without explicit consent. Google has not admitted fault but agreed to the preliminary settlement in January.

The settlement website is now active, allowing eligible claimants to set payment information. A final court approval hearing is scheduled for June 23, where objections will be heard and the settlement's fairness will be considered.

As part of the agreement, Google will revise its Google Play terms of service to clarify passive data transfers and the use of cellular data when not on Wi-Fi. Users will be required to consent to these practices during device setup. Google will also cease collecting data if the "allow background data usage" option is disabled.

To qualify for the Taylor v. Google LLC settlement, specific criteria must be met. Claimants without a Notice ID or Confirmation Code can contact the settlement administrators for information. Even those who did not receive a notification may still be eligible and can inquire via a toll-free number or email.

Individual payout amounts are not yet finalized but are capped at a maximum of $100 per member. Payments will be processed after the final court approval and resolution of any appeals. Any remaining funds, after administrative and legal costs, will be redistributed to members or donated to a court-approved organization if redistribution is not feasible.