YOU COULD GET $100 FROM GOOGLE’S NEW $135 MILLION SETTLEMENT — HERE’S WHO QUALIFIES

Google is facing fresh legal scrutiny after agreeing to settle two separate lawsuits that could result in millions of dollars being paid out to users. The proposed settlements, filed in federal court in California in January, still require judicial approval. If cleared, Android users and certain Google device owners could receive payments as part of agreements totaling between $100 million and $135 million. Here’s what the cases are about and who could be affected.

ALSO READ: Quote of the Day by Maya Angelou: 'There is no greater agony than bearing…'—Inspiring quotes by the world-famous author

What is Google accused of in the Android data case?

One of the lawsuits, filed in the Northern District of California, claims Google programmed its Android operating system to gather users’ cellular data without their consent.

According to the complaint, the data was allegedly obtained from mobile carriers and collected even when users had closed their Google apps, locked their screens, or disabled location-sharing settings. Plaintiffs argued that this data collection led to more targeted advertising, describing it as “conversion,” which the lawsuit characterizes as an attempt to assert control over one party by taking the other's property.

Google has denied any wrongdoing. "We are pleased to resolve this case, which mischaracterized standard industry practices that keep Android safe," José Castañeda, Google spokesperson, previously told USA Today about the Android case.

The proposed settlement related to this lawsuit was filed on Jan. 27. If approved, payments could amount to roughly $100 per eligible class member, as per a report by USA Today.

ALSO READ: Employee takes WFH within a week of joining without informing boss on an overseas business trip - Internet says she crossed boundaries

What does the Google Assistant lawsuit claim?

A second lawsuit, also filed in the same federal court, centers on Google’s voice-activated assistant.

The complaint alleges that Google enabled its assistant to record and share private conversations after being activated for targeted advertising purposes. The feature responds to phrases such as “Hey Google” or “Okay Google.”

Who qualifies for the lawsuit claim?

Court documents previously reviewed by USA Today state that the proposed settlement applies to users who purchased Google devices since May 18, 2016. This agreement was filed on Jan. 23.

Under the terms outlined in court filings, Google has agreed to pay $68 million to settle the Google Assistant case. However, like the Android settlement, it must still be approved by a judge before moving forward, as per a report by USA Today.

ALSO READ: Employee wants to vent ire at exit interview and name people for what they were up to — gets advice to calm down

What happens next for users?

Both settlements remain pending judicial approval. Until a judge signs off, no payments will be distributed.

If approved, the combined payouts from the two cases could range between $100 million and $135 million, potentially providing around $100 to each eligible class member.

Google continues to deny wrongdoing in both matters while moving toward resolution through the settlement process.

FAQs

How much could users receive from the Google settlement?

If approved, eligible class members could receive around $100, depending on final court approval and distribution terms.

Has Google admitted wrongdoing?

No. Google has denied wrongdoing in both lawsuits while agreeing to settle the cases.