Made purchases on the Play Store with your Pixel phone in the US? You might get your money back; here's why

If you’re an Android user in the US who frequently indulges in purchasing from the Play Store, here’s some good news. Google will return the money that you’ve spent on their app store.

A lawsuit filed against Google in 2021 accused the company of maintaining a monopoly over app distribution on Android through its Play Store. It alleged that the tech giant was using anti-competitive practices in its mobile app store. This led to a $700 million settlement with the state attorneys general in September 2023. In addition to this, Google has also introduced certain changes in its Play Store policies.

Out of the $700 million settlement, $629 million will be used to reimburse US consumers affected by Google’s Play Store practices. Additionally, $70 million is assigned to the states, providing attorneys general the flexibility to use these funds as needed.

Android users in the US who’ve made purchases on the Play Store are in line to receive refunds. The company will send money back for the purchases made between August 16, 2016, and September 30, 2023

The settlement requires Google to send refunds to Android users in several states including Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Pennsylvania alone has been allocated $20.58 million, although the exact amounts for other states remain undisclosed.

Eligible users will receive their refunds directly in their PayPal or Venmo accounts linked with their Play Store email. They’ll get an email once the funds have been deposited. Moreover, users who don’t have a PayPal or a Venmo account will have to create one to get the refund.

In cases where eligible users do not receive money through PayPal or Venmo, or the amount is big, Google will issue a written check to them. That said, you should keep an eye on your accounts and emails, as refunds might soon be heading your way!