Alphabet, Google’s parent company, has agreed to a $700 million settlement in an antitrust case, with the funds to be distributed to US customers of its Android app store and state governments.
The settlement, made public on Monday, addresses allegations of Google abusing its power related to consumer access to apps on Android devices.
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As part of the agreement, Google will make modifications to its Google Play app store to enhance competition for developers, allowing apps to directly bill users.
The settlement fund, totaling $630 million, will benefit eligible consumers who made purchases on the Play store between August 16, 2016, and September 30, 2023.
The settlement allows app developers to implement an alternative billing option for in-app purchases alongside Google Play’s billing system for US users.
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The settlement involves all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and two territories. Last week, Epic Games, the creator of Fortnite, won a significant court battle against Google, alleging illegal monopoly power through its Android app store.
Alphabet is challenging that verdict and emphasizes that the case with Epic is ongoing.