Google faces a UK class‑action lawsuit alleging £1 billion in excessive Play Store fees
A mass consumer lawsuit worth over £1 billion was launched in London on 6 Oct 2026. Consumer advocate Liz Coll is leading the claim on behalf of roughly 20 million users who bought apps or in‑app items through Google Play between 2015 and July 2026. The plaintiffs allege Google charged commissions of up to 30 % and passed the costs to consumers. Alphabet denies the allegations, saying its fees are among the lowest in the market and that Android offers ample choice.
Why it matters
If the tribunal finds Google violated competition rules, the company could be ordered to pay damages up to the £1 billion claim and may have to alter its Play Store fee structure, which could affect the Subscriptions, Platforms and Devices revenue line. The outcome will be closely watched by investors for its potential impact on future cash flows.
Key facts
- 1The lawsuit is valued at more than £1 billion (about $1.33 billion). investing.com
- 2The claim covers around 20 million consumers who purchased apps or in‑app items on Google Play between 2015 and July 2026. mezha.net
- 3Plaintiffs allege Google charged commissions of up to 30 % on app sales, in‑app purchases and subscriptions. investing.com
- 4Consumer rights advocate Liz Coll is leading the case. investing.com
- 5The trial is being heard by London's Competition Appeal Tribunal. investing.com
- 6Google settled a separate developer lawsuit for £260 million in August 2026 without admitting wrongdoing. investing.com
Open questions
- The exact end date of the period covered by the claim varies between sources (July 2026 vs. July 2026 mentioned without year).
Summary written by AlphAI from 3 of 3 sources. Not investment advice. Figures are as stated by the linked sources.