Google Assistant Privacy Settlement: $68 Million Available

Google has agreed to pay $68 million to settle a class action lawsuit over privacy violations involving Google Assistant. The settlement covers consumers who purchased Google-made devices or had their communications recorded by the voice assistant.

The lawsuit accused Google of recording private conversations without proper permission. Google Assistant allegedly captured audio even when users did not say the wake words “Hey Google” or “OK Google.” These recordings violated user privacy expectations and state privacy laws.

Two main groups of people qualify for settlement payments. First, consumers who bought Google-made devices with Google Assistant built in may be eligible. Second, people who had their communications recorded by Google Assistant can file claims.

The total settlement fund is $68 million. Device purchasers could receive approximately $18 to $56 per device, while “privacy-only” class members, or those whose conversations were recorded but who did not purchase a device, could receive between $2 and $10, depending on participation rates.The exact amount each person receives depends on how many valid claims are filed and the type of device owned.

Settlement claims must be filed by a specific deadline to receive payment. Missing this deadline means losing the right to settlement money.

Eligible consumers need to file claims to receive their settlement payments. The process likely involves providing proof of device ownership or evidence of recorded communications.

Google has not admitted wrongdoing in agreeing to this settlement. The company says it settled to avoid the costs and uncertainty of continued legal proceedings.