Alphabet’s Google agreed to pay $353.21 million to resolve a UK class action lawsuit filed on behalf of app developers who alleged the company abused its market dominance through the Google Play Store.
Under the proposed settlement, Google will allocate £160 million to compensate developers who sold apps on the Play Store between August 2018 and July 2026. An additional £100 million is earmarked to cover legal costs and expenses related to the proceedings. The agreement, which does not include any admission of liability, is subject to approval by the UK’s Competition Appeal Tribunal (CAT) in London.
The lawsuit, led by academic Barry Rodger, claimed Google imposed an unfair 30% commission on developers and restricted alternative distribution channels, stifling competition. Rodger described the settlement as a "great result" for developers, noting that it would provide meaningful compensation to smaller firms unable to challenge Google independently.
This case marks the fourth major tech-related class action in the UK since early 2025, following similar legal challenges against Apple, Qualcomm, and Sony. The trial, originally scheduled for September 2026, was averted by the settlement. Google stated in filings that it believed it had strong arguments against the allegations.
The CAT’s approval is required before the settlement funds are distributed. Eligible developers must meet the specified timeline criteria to qualify for compensation.
