Alphabet’s flagship unit, Google, agrees to settle two U.S. class-action lawsuits for over $200 million related to Google Assistant and Android data collection. European Commission opens new proceedings against Google under Digital Markets Act, emphasizing data handling concerns on a global scale. Stock up 7% despite legal challenges.

Google to pay $68 million to settle lawsuit alleging Google Assistant recorded private conversations without consent. Plaintiffs claim recordings were stored and used without permission. Class members who bought Google devices between 2016 and approval date eligible for reimbursement. Final approval hearing set for March 19, 2026.

In a separate case, Google agrees to $135 million settlement for Android operating system allegedly collecting and transferring cellular data without consent. Plaintiffs claim misuse of data as “conversion.” Settlement allows Android users between November 2017 and final judgment date to seek monetary payment. Trial set for August 5, 2026.

Google faces additional legal challenges in Europe under digital market laws, aiming to ensure compliance with interoperability and data sharing obligations. Proceedings set to conclude in six months. European Commission emphasizes importance of AI tools for online interactions and seeks to provide third-party developers with access to Google’s data.

These developments come amid ongoing changes to Google Play Terms of Service and Android functions, including a toggle switch to opt out of background data transfers. Despite legal troubles, Google and Alphabet deny wrongdoing and seek to settle to avoid further litigation. Approvals pending for settlements to compensate affected users and resolve legal disputes.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: Could you get a payout?