Google set to defend £1.2bn UK lawsuit over alleged excessive Play Store charges

The Financial Times reports Google is preparing to defend a £1.2bn UK class action alleging Play Store practices led to excessive charges for Android users since 2015. Claimants say Google put barriers in the way of rival app stores and developers passed its commissions on to consumers. About 20mn people could receive roughly £60 each on average if the claim succeeds. Google denies anti-competitive conduct, arguing Android offers choice and the Play Store protects users from cyber security threats.