Google One VPN is being discontinued, and here’s why

Google One users received disappointing news today as Google announced that it would be discontinuing its VPN functionality in the coming months. Launched by Google One in October 2020, the VPN aims to provide Android users with an extra layer of online protection, giving them peace of mind when it comes to data security. Despite initial promises, Google revealed that usage of the VPN feature was significantly lower than expected, leading to its termination.

Reason for discontinuation

The VPN was initially only available to Premium plan subscribers at a price of $9.99 per month, and later became available in March 2023 at a price of $1.99 per month.However, even with the price drop, adoption remains low, prompting Google to shift its focus to more reportedly popular features within the Google One platform 9to5google.

Also read: Google launches Android 15 Beta 1 – the top features coming to your smartphone

The decision to remove the VPN feature is in line with Google’s recent efforts to simplify its services and prioritize features with higher user engagement. Earlier this year, Google One celebrated reaching 100 million users, with CEO Sundar Pichai highlighting it as a key growth area driven by artificial intelligence technology.

Existing users of Google One VPN will be directed to third-party VPN alternatives, but no specific timetable for the discontinuation was provided. However, Google assured users that the transition process will be seamless.

Although Google One VPN is discontinued, Pixel users need not worry as the free Pixel VPN that will be launched with the Pixel 7 series in 2022 is still unaffected. Additionally, Pixel 7 users are about to get an exciting upgrade, rolling out the big VPN upgrade that originally rolled out with the Pixel 8. The upgrade, scheduled to roll out in June, will provide users of older Pixel devices with an enhanced VPN experience, eliminating the need for the Google One app and persistent notifications.

Additionally, Google Fi users can continue to access the VPN provided by their service, ensuring they maintain a secure online experience. While Google One’s discontinuation of VPN may be disappointing to some users, the upcoming Pixel VPN enhancements and continued VPN service through Google Fi provide alternatives for users looking for online protection.

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