Google has been ordered to pay out $700 million to consumers and the states after being found guilty of violating antitrust laws and engaging in anti-competitive practices.
Google Forced to Pay Out $700 Million
The US Department of Justice and several states sued Google four years ago, accusing the tech giant of abusing its power in the Android operating system market. The lawsuit claimed that Google’s dominance stifled competition and limited consumer choice. After a lengthy legal battle, a jury found Google guilty of violating antitrust laws.
As part of the settlement, Google agreed to make changes to its business practices. The company will now take a smaller cut from app sales ranging from 11-26%. Additionally, customers will have more options for purchasing products directly from developers bypassing Google’s payment system, according to the report of Tyla Menu.
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Google Forced to Pay Out $700 Million After Anti-Competitive Practices: Consumers to Receive Minimum Payout of $2
As a result of its past actions, Google must pay out $630 million to consumers and an additional $70 million to the states. Anyone who made a purchase on the Play Store between August 16, 2016 and September 30, 2023 is eligible for a minimum payout of $2. Customers won’t need to do anything – they’ll be automatically notified about their options for receiving their share of the money. This is a major victory for consumers, who will finally get relief from Google’s allegedly anti-competitive practices.