Google has reached a preliminary settlement of $135 million to resolve a class action lawsuit involving Android users who accused the tech giant of unlawfully gathering their data without consent. The lawsuit, initiated by users who claimed that Google collected cellular data from devices purchased through carriers since November 12, 2017, alleged that this occurred even when applications were closed or location services were disabled.
According to Reuters, the plaintiffs argue that Google’s use of their data for marketing and product development constituted “conversion.” In legal terms, conversion refers to the unauthorized taking of someone else’s property with the intent to deprive them of it.
The settlement, pending judicial approval, was filed in a federal court in San Jose earlier this week. If finalized, it would represent one of the largest payouts in a case of this nature, as stated by Glen Summers, an attorney representing the plaintiffs.
Key points to note about the settlement include:
– Each affected user could receive up to $100 from Google.
– Google denies any misconduct and has committed to obtaining user consent during the setup of new devices.
– A new feature will be introduced, allowing users to readily disable data transfer.
– Adjustments to Google’s terms of service will also be made to enhance user transparency.
Additionally, this settlement follows a recent $68 million agreement concerning claims that Google Assistant had been inadvertently recording users after misinterpreting sounds as activation commands, where Google again denied any wrongdoing. A trial regarding the current case is set to take place on August 5.
