A £1bn Google class-action trial is opening in the UK as 20 million Android users could each claim £60

From the Newshound archive · first published 4 October 2026 · last updated 6 October 2026.

The UK's Competition Appeal Tribunal is hearing a £1 billion class-action against Google over alleged "hidden charges" built into Play Store purchases, with proceedings commencing today. Consumer champion Liz Coll is leading the case on behalf of around 20 million UK consumers and businesses. Google says it will defend its services "vigorously" and denies breaking competition law.

Anyone who bought an app, subscription or in-game purchase on an Android device between October 2015 and July 2026 is automatically included in the claim.

The case alleges Google charged developers up to 30% commission on Play Store sales and passed that cost to consumers through inflated prices — so a £10 Candy Crush purchase quietly put £3 in Google's pocket.

Hausfeld partner Lesley Hannah said Google used its market position to charge 'an excessive commission for well over a decade — and it's the consumer that has paid the price.'