Google Settles Lawsuit Over Android Data Collection

Tech giant to pay $135 million and make changes to data practices after being accused of unauthorized cellular data collection.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 11:07am

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Google has agreed to pay $135 million to settle a class action lawsuit alleging the company improperly collected cellular data from Android smartphone users without their permission. As part of the settlement, Google will be required to obtain explicit user consent for data transfers and make it easier for users to control data sharing.

Why it matters

The lawsuit highlighted growing concerns over data privacy and the collection of user information by tech companies without proper consent. The settlement represents a significant shift in how Google handles Android user data, potentially setting a precedent for increased transparency and user control over personal information.

The details

The lawsuit claimed Google unnecessarily collected cellular data that users had purchased from their mobile carriers, even when users took steps to limit data collection by closing apps, disabling location-sharing, or locking their screens. The plaintiffs alleged Google used this data to support product development and targeted advertising.

  • The lawsuit covers Android users dating back to November 12, 2017.
  • The settlement was filed this week in federal court in San Jose, California.

The players

Google

A multinational technology company that develops and operates the Android operating system for smartphones.

Android smartphone users

The plaintiffs in the class action lawsuit who alleged Google improperly collected their cellular data without permission.

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What’s next

The settlement agreement still awaits judicial approval before being finalized.

The takeaway

This case highlights the growing scrutiny over data privacy practices of tech companies and the need for increased transparency and user control over personal information collected by digital platforms.