Google updates Play Store terms to address background data and subscription billing ahead of July 2026 rollout

Google has published updated Play Terms of Service ahead of a July 29, 2026 rollout, with notable changes to policies around background system services, cellular data usage, and subscription billing. The revisions come months after Google settled a $135 million lawsuit over allegations that Android devices sent cellular data to Google while idle without user knowledge. While most changes are clarifications, the expanded language addresses data privacy concerns that have dogged the company.