Google has agreed to a $135 million class action settlement resolving allegations that the tech giant unlawfully tracked and collected private cellular data from Android users to support its targeted advertising business, according to court documents filed on January 27, 2026. The proposed agreement awaits preliminary approval from United States District Court Judge Virginia K. DeMarchi.
Scope of the Android Data Tracking Settlement
According to ClassAction.org, the settlement covers more than 100 million Americans who used cellular data to access the internet or mobile services on devices running the Android operating system between November 12, 2017, and the date of final approval. Android users residing in California are excluded from the agreement. A separate class action filed in July 2025 previously resolved claims for approximately 14 million California Android users with a $314.6 million settlement, as reported by ClassAction.org.
The lawsuit alleged that Google embedded tracking technologies in its devices to “free-ride” off cellular data purchased monthly by consumers from their mobile carriers. Plaintiffs claimed this data collection effectively subsidized the company’s targeted advertising operations without adequate user consent.
Payouts and Injunctive Relief for Class Members
Under the proposed terms detailed by ClassAction.org, settlement class members will not need to submit claims to receive compensation. Eligible individuals are positioned to receive an automatic, one-time pro-rated cash payment capped at $100. These distributions represent a share of the net settlement fund remaining after deductions for attorneys’ fees, settlement administration costs, and lead plaintiff service awards.
Payments will be sent electronically via PayPal, Venmo, or Zelle using accounts linked to the email addresses and phone numbers already stored in Google’s systems. The settlement administrator plans to launch an online form allowing class members to specify a preferred payment method or update their contact details.
Alongside financial compensation, the agreement mandates significant injunctive relief. According to plaintiffs cited by ClassAction.org, these operational adjustments will require Google to modify the Android setup process and clarify Google Play terms and conditions, ultimately preventing the unauthorized use of approximately $300 million worth of cellular data annually.
Timeline and Next Steps
The agreement requires preliminary approval from Judge Virginia K. DeMarchi before notice can be distributed to the class. Following preliminary approval, a final approval hearing will be scheduled to evaluate objections and issue a ruling. Cash benefits will be disbursed after final approval is granted and any subsequent legal appeals are resolved.
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