Google Faces £1 Billion UK Lawsuit Over Play Store Fees

A major class-action lawsuit against Google over its app store fees kicked off in London on October 6, with potential damages exceeding £1 billion ($1.33 billion). The case, filed by consumer rights advocate Liz Coll, represents around 20 million UK consumers who made purchases through the Google Play Store or its in-app services between 2015 and July 2026. The claimants argue that Google abused its dominant market position by charging developers up to 30% in commissions, which were then passed on to consumers. They also allege that Google imposed additional fees, such as those paid to Apple for YouTube Premium sales through the App Store.

Google’s parent company, Alphabet, denies the allegations. A company representative stated that the lawsuit ignores the competitive choices available to Android users and that Google’s fees are among the lowest in the market. Google’s legal team dismissed Coll’s claims as unfounded, asserting that the Google Play Store faces competition from other platforms, including the App Store.

The lawsuit is being heard by the Competition Appeal Tribunal in London and marks another legal challenge to major tech companies in the UK. Similar cases have targeted Apple and Sony over their app store fees. The case is also part of broader disputes over Google Play Store policies, including a recent settlement with Epic Games and a £260 million agreement with app developers. The outcome will determine whether Google violated competition rules and whether consumers deserve compensation.