LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Attorney General Tim Griffin announced on Tuesday that Arkansans "who were harmed by Google's anticompetitive conduct" will receive more than $4.7 million in restitution following a settlement with the American multinational technology company.
"The primary issue in this suit was that Google monopolized the market for Android app distribution and in-app payment processing, using anticompetitive practices to limit consumer access to the rival app stores," Griffin said. "I am pleased with the outcome of this case and glad that affected Arkansans will receive restitution."
Google must pay $700 million, with $630 million going toward restitution. The technology company will also be forced to stop its "anticompetitive practices."
Consumers who purchased on the Google Play Store between August 2016 and September 2023 and were harmed by Google's practices are eligible for a restitution payment.
Griffin said affected consumers will not have to submit a claim to receive their payment. The money will be granted automatically through PayPal or Venmo. Consumers can also elect to receive their payment through a check or Automated Clearing House (ACH) transfer.