Hold onto your receipts, Android users! A recent lawsuit settlement means over 100 million Americans who made in-app purchases on Google Play between August 2016 and September 2023 could be eligible for a slice of a $630 million pie. But who gets a bite, and how big will it be? Let’s break it down.
You’re in if:
- You reside in the United States, including DC, Puerto Rico, or the US Virgin Islands.
- Your Google Play profile lists an address within those regions during the eligible period.
- You used Google Play to purchase apps or make in-app purchases (subscriptions, digital goods, etc.) between August 2016 and September 2023.
You’re out if:
- You live outside the eligible areas.
- You never made any in-app purchases within the specified time-frame.
- You used alternative app stores (Amazon Appstore, etc.) for your Android purchases.
How much can you expect?
Everyone gets at least $2, but you could score more depending on how much you spent:
- Low spenders: If you made minimal purchases, you’ll likely receive the minimum $2.
- Moderate spenders: The more you spent, the bigger your share. Specific amounts haven’t been finalized, but expect something proportional to your spending history.
- High rollers: Big spenders could see significant payouts, potentially exceeding $100.
How to claim your share:
- No action needed: The good news is, for most eligible consumers, Google will automatically distribute payments without needing to file a claim. They’ll likely use the payment method linked to your Google Play account.
- Stay informed: Keep an eye on your email and Google Play notifications for details and instructions. The official settlement website (to be announced) will also provide claim information.
Remember:
- This settlement only applies to in-app purchases made through Google Play, not app downloads or purchases made outside the store.
- The exact payout amounts and distribution timeline are still being finalized.
- Beware of scams: Don’t share your personal information or pay any fees to “claim” your money. The legitimate distribution will be handled by Google and the settlement administrators.
So, if you’re one of the millions who used Google Play for in-app purchases in the past seven years, keep your eyes peeled for notifications and check the official settlement website for updates. You might just find a little extra holiday cheer in your Google account!
This article is an update to a previous article.
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