Google to Pay $135 Million to Android Users in Class Action Settlement

The settlement requires Google to implement new consent and disclosure changes for Android data collection.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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Google has agreed to pay $135 million to resolve a proposed class action lawsuit accusing its Android operating system of collecting users' cellular data without permission. The deal, which requires a judge's final approval, would commit Google to new disclosures and consent mechanisms during the setup of an Android device. Plaintiffs alleged that Google programmed Android devices to transfer data over cellular networks even when devices were idle or connected to Wi-Fi, consuming users' paid cellular data.

Why it matters

This settlement highlights growing concerns over data privacy and transparency around how tech companies collect and use consumer data, especially on mobile devices. The case could set a precedent for how companies must obtain user consent and disclose background data collection practices.

The details

The lawsuit, Taylor et al. v. Google LLC, alleged that Android performed "passive data transfers" over cellular networks, even when devices were idle or connected to Wi-Fi. Plaintiffs claimed these transfers consumed cellular data that users had paid for, benefitting Google's product development and targeted advertising strategies. As part of the settlement, Google agreed to obtain user consent during device setup, add or adjust toggles to stop certain data transfers, and update its terms to better disclose background data collection.

  • The lawsuit was filed on November 12, 2017.
  • The $135 million settlement was preliminarily approved on January 28, 2026.
  • A final approval hearing is scheduled for August 5, 2026.

The players

Taylor et al.

The plaintiffs in the class action lawsuit against Google, including Joseph Taylor, Mick Cleary, and Jennifer Nelson.

Google LLC

The defendant in the class action lawsuit, accused of collecting Android users' cellular data without permission.

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What’s next

If the settlement receives final approval, the $135 million fund will be distributed on a pro-rata basis to eligible Android users on carrier data plans from November 12, 2017, through the final judgment. Google will also be required to implement new consent and disclosure changes during the Android device setup process and in its terms of service.

The takeaway

This case highlights the growing scrutiny over data privacy practices in the tech industry, particularly around how companies collect and use consumer data on mobile devices. The settlement could set a precedent for increased transparency and user consent requirements for background data collection by tech platforms.