Twenty million Android users could each receive £60 as Google's £1bn Play Store trial gets under way in London

From the Newshound archive · first published 7 October 2026.

Consumer champion Liz Coll is leading a £1 billion class-action case against Google at London's Competition Appeal Tribunal, accusing the tech giant of abusing its dominant position to charge app developers commissions of up to 30% on Play Store purchases. The claim covers around 20 million UK consumers who bought apps, subscriptions or in-app purchases through Google Play between October 2015 and July 2026, and participation is automatic — no sign-up required. If Google loses, each claimant could receive roughly £60. Google's lawyers are fighting back, calling Coll's case unfounded and arguing the Play Store faces strong competition from Apple's App Store and other platforms.

The case targets commission charges on paid apps, gaming extras, dating and fitness subscriptions, and ad-free upgrades — anything bought through Google Play in that decade-long window.

Google cited its fees as among the lowest in the market, but claimants point out that even Google passed Apple's commission onto consumers when selling YouTube Premium through the App Store.

The trial follows similar £1bn-scale actions against Apple over its App Store and Sony over the PlayStation Store, both involving the same 30% commission model.