Connecticut Google Play Users Eligible for $700M Settlement Refunds

Connecticut consumers who’ve spent years buying apps, games, and subscriptions on the Google Play Store could soon see real money coming back to them.

A major $700 million antitrust settlement with Google—announced by Connecticut Attorney General William Tong—aims to compensate Android users for alleged overcharges tied to the tech giant’s control of app distribution and in-app payments.

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What the Google Play Settlement Means for Connecticut Consumers

The settlement stems from claims that Google used its dominance over the Android app marketplace to stifle competition and quietly drive up prices.

Between August 2016 and September 2023, the company allegedly enforced practices that let it collect fees of up to 30 percent on app purchases and in-app transactions.

For residents in Hartford, New Haven, Bridgeport, and beyond, this deal could translate into direct payments.

Most people won’t even need to file a claim.

Allegations of a Google Play Monopoly

Attorneys general from 53 states and territories, including Connecticut, California, and New York, accused Google of maintaining an unlawful monopoly over Android app distribution.

According to the complaint, Google allegedly:

  • Blocked or discouraged competing app stores that might have offered lower prices or alternative payment systems
  • Forced app developers into using Google’s own billing system for in-app purchases
  • Collected steep commissions—up to 30 percent—on many app-related transactions
  • Officials say those practices left consumers in towns from Stamford to Waterbury, and Norwalk to Danbury, paying more than they should have for digital products on their Android devices.

    How Much Money Is Involved—and Where It’s Going

    The overall settlement totals $700 million nationwide.

    Of that, Google has already deposited $630 million into a fund designated for consumer payments.

    The remainder is slated for other settlement-related purposes, such as penalties and costs.

    Before any checks or transfers go out, a court must give final approval to the agreement.

    But the framework for distributing the money is already in place.

    Who Is Eligible for a Payment?

    The settlement focuses on people who used the Google Play Store during the affected period.

    In general, you may be eligible if you:

  • Used an Android device and made app purchases or in-app payments via Google Play between August 2016 and September 2023
  • Were charged through Google Play’s billing system for those transactions
  • You don’t have to live in a particular city—whether you’re in Greenwich, New Britain, Meriden, or a small shoreline town.

    Eligibility is based on your Google Play activity, not your ZIP code.

    How and When Payments Will Be Sent

    One of the most consumer-friendly features of this settlement is that most people won’t need to file a claim.

    Instead, payments are largely automatic, provided your Google Play account has usable contact information.

    Here’s the expected timeline and process:

    Payment Notifications Begin December 2, 2025

    Starting December 2, 2025, eligible Google Play users will receive notifications explaining how much they’re owed and how the money will be delivered.

    The payments will primarily be sent through:

  • PayPal
  • Venmo
  • The settlement administrators will rely on the contact information linked to your Google Play account.

    That means the email or phone number Google has on file will be crucial to ensuring you get your money.

    What If You Don’t Use PayPal or Venmo?

    If your account isn’t currently linked to PayPal or Venmo, you still have options:

  • You can create a new PayPal or Venmo account using the email or phone number connected to your Google Play account
  • You may be able to redirect the payment once you receive the notice, following the instructions provided in the settlement communication
  • A supplemental claims process will also be available for people who:

  • Do not have PayPal or Venmo at all, or
  • Did not receive a payment but believe they should be included
  • Key Legal Deadlines for Consumers

    Even though you probably won’t have to take action to get a payment, you do have rights if you want to challenge or opt out of the settlement.

    Important Dates to Remember

    Two deadlines stand out for Connecticut consumers:

  • February 19, 2026 – Last day to opt out of the settlement or submit formal objections to the court
  • April 30, 2026 – Date set for the court’s final approval hearing, where a judge will decide whether to give the settlement a final green light
  • If the court approves the deal, payments will move forward as planned.

    If you choose to opt out, you won’t receive money from this settlement but preserve your right to pursue your own claim against Google.

    What Connecticut Residents Should Do Now

    For now, your best move is preparation, not panic.

    Make sure your Google Play account information is up to date, especially your email and phone number.

    Steps to Take Today

    Connecticut consumers can get ready to claim any payments owed to them by taking a few quick steps.

  • Check your Google Play settings to make sure your email and mobile number are up to date.
  • Look over your PayPal or Venmo accounts. If you don’t have one, set it up using the same contact info tied to Google Play.
  • Keep an eye out for official notices starting December 2, 2025. Ignore any sketchy offers or messages that promise faster payments.
  • Attorney General William Tong’s office says this settlement is part of a bigger effort to keep digital markets honest. For Android users in Connecticut, from city streets to quiet country roads, the Google Play settlement might mean a small refund—and a nudge that even the biggest tech companies have to follow the rules.

     
    Here is the source article for this story: CT Google Play Users Notified Of Refund Process From $700M Settlement

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