Millions of people in the UK use the Google Play Store every day. From downloading apps to paying for subscriptions or in-app content, it’s become part of how we use our phones.
Now, that ecosystem is at the centre of a major legal claim.
A collective action has been brought against Google, alleging that the company restricted competition and charged excessive commissions on purchases made through the Play Store. The case is now progressing through the courts, with a trial expected later this year.
But what does this actually mean for you?
What is the Google Play Store claim about?
The claim focuses on how Google controls the Play Store on Android devices.
According to the case, Google:
- Limited alternative ways for developers to distribute apps
- Required developers to use its own payment system
- Charged commissions of up to 30% on certain purchases.
The argument is that these restrictions reduced competition. And where competition is limited, prices can rise. In this case, the claim alleges that those higher costs were passed on to users through app prices, subscriptions and in-app purchases.
Who could be affected
The scope of the claim is wide. You may be included if you:
- Bought apps, subscriptions or digital content through the UK Google Play Store
- Used an Android phone or tablet with Google Play pre-installed
- Made purchases between 1 October 2015 and 1 March 2024
- Were living in the UK on 18 July 2022.
This applies to both individuals and businesses, and can include purchases made for someone else. Because this is an opt-out claim, eligible users are automatically included unless they chose to opt out.
So, what’s next?
The claim has already passed an important legal milestone.
In 2022, the Competition Appeal Tribunal approved the case to proceed as a collective action.
That means it met the threshold to be heard on behalf of a defined group. Since then, the case has been moving through the usual pre-trial stages, including evidence gathering and case management. A trial is currently expected to begin in October 2026.
At this stage, no findings have been made. The case has not been proven, and there is no guarantee of compensation. But it is worth keeping a close eye on developments.
From here, the process is likely to follow one of two paths.
- The case could proceed to trial, where the Tribunal will decide whether competition law was breached and whether consumers paid higher prices as a result.
- Alternatively, there could be a settlement before trial. That happens in some collective actions, but it is not guaranteed.
If the claim is successful, there would usually be a process for eligible users to come forward and claim their share of any compensation.
What should you do now?
Right now, there’s nothing you need to do to be part of the claim.
Because it’s an opt-out case, inclusion happens automatically if you meet the criteria. You would only need to take action later if you want to claim any compensation that may be awarded.
That said, awareness matters. Many people don’t realise these cases exist until long after key developments have happened.
Registering for updates and keeping up to date means you’ll know if and when action is required, particularly if a compensation process opens in the future.
Join the Claim connects consumers with trusted, SRA-regulated law firms. For this claim, we’re not directly involved, but we’ll keep you informed. Where possible, we’ll share links to official claim websites or updates as they become available.
