Google Faces £5 Billion UK Class Action Over Dominance Allegations

Alphabet Inc.'s Google is facing a class action lawsuit in the UK over alleged abuse of its dominance. The company allegedly overcharged businesses for online advertising and exploited its power over mobile operating systems, app distribution, and search advertising.

The Competition Appeal Tribunal allowed the claim to proceed on an opt-out basis, meaning that hundreds of thousands of British firms will be included unless they choose to exclude themselves. This includes approximately 880,000 firms, which lawyers estimate could result in damages of up to £5 billion ($6.7 billion).

Google's spokesperson described the lawsuit as 'speculative and opportunistic' and vowed to argue against it vigorously. The ruling does not imply that Google broke any laws, but rather allows the case to proceed to a trial on its merits.