Anyone with an Android phone in their pocket could find they suddenly have a little more cash back in their wallets.A major trial is getting underway that alleges Google broke competition law, and it may mean a payday for consumers.The claim, which is being brought by consumer technology expert Liz Coll, says Google charged app developers an excessive commission of up to 30 percent on purchases made through its Play Store.EU charges Google with abusing Android dominance This was then passed onto Android fans who ended up paying more for games, app upgrades and bonus features.
Article continues below ADVERTISEMENTFor example, when £10 was spent on Candy Crush in-app purchases, £7 went to the game's maker.The claim is that the £3 kept by Google was passed on to players in the form of higher prices.If successful, Google could be forced to pay up to £1 billion in compensation.It's thought that around 20 million Android users could be included in the claim, with each set to receive around £60 if Google is found guilty.Article continues below ADVERTISEMENT"Millions of us have paid for apps, games and subscriptions on our phones without knowing a hidden charge was built into the price," Liz Coll explained.
Article continues below ADVERTISEMENT"This trial is about getting that money back for people who use their phone and apps everyday.” New way to watch TV launches in the UK and some homes get it for free Forget music streaming, the Hi-Fi is back with a CD player and very modern twist Tech news, reviews and latest gadgets plus selected offers and competitions I would like to receive emails from the Daily Express featuring our latest products, services, offers, and promotions from across the Reach Plc family.Subscribe Invalid email You agree you are 18 or over.We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you.
This may include adverts from us and third parties based on our knowledge of you.You can unsubscribe at any time.More Info.Google says it has done nothing wrong and will "vigorously" defend it position.A Google spokesman said: “Android gives people more choice than any other mobile platform in deciding which apps and app stores they use, with Play offering some of the lowest fees in the market.“This lawsuit ignores that choice as well as the competitive market in which we operate, and we will defend our services vigorously.”If Google is forced to pay, it may affect anyone in the UK who has paid for an app, game, in-app extra or subscription through the Google Play Store on an Android phone or tablet since October 2015.The trial is expected to finish in November.
If the claim succeeds or settles, class members will be told how to claim.Nikki Stopford, co-founder of consumer rights organisation Consumer Voice, said: “Liz is taking on a tech giant on behalf of millions of people in the UK who simply wouldn’t be able to do it on their own."But she needs your support.and is a good way to show it and to be kept updated."
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