Google One VPN was a feature that allowed users to browse the internet securely and privately. It's no longer available, which means users will need to find alternative ways to protect their online activity.
The VPN feature was included with Google One, a storage and cloud backup service. Now, users won't have access to this added layer of security.
Google One VPN was designed to protect users from online threats and hackers.
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Google One VPN Discontinued
Google just announced that it will terminate its VPN service for Google One subscribers and Pixel smartphone owners.
The decision to sunset this offering was introduced in October 2020 and is part of Google's ongoing efforts to prioritize its resources and align services with user demand.
Google One subscribers received an email from Google about the service's discontinuation.
The email outlines forthcoming changes scheduled to take effect by May 15, including the phase-out of the VPN feature for subscribers.
Despite this change, owners of Pixel 7 and newer devices will retain access to a Pixel-exclusive VPN.
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Alternatives to Consider
I've been using Google One's VPN service for years, and I'm now on the hunt for a new provider. You should consider switching to Surfshark, a wallet-friendly substitute for Google One VPN.
Surfshark offers a rich feature set at a lower cost than many other VPN services. It's a great Google One VPN alternative, with over 3,200 servers across 65 countries.
The best part about Surfshark is that it doesn’t limit the number of connected devices per account, so you can share your account with friends and family. This is a big plus for those who need to protect multiple devices.
Surfshark is available for almost all devices on the market today, making it a versatile option. It's also available for a range of prices, starting as low as $2.19 per month with a two-year basic plan.
Surfshark's pricing can go up to $4.29 per month if you want all the features, but it's still a great value compared to some other VPN services. The monthly plans are a bit pricier, with the basic plan at $15.45 per month and Surfshark One+ at $17.95 per month.
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Reasons and Decision
Google's decision to discontinue its VPN service is largely due to subdued demand, as the company wants to focus on supporting features that are more in demand.
People simply weren't using the VPN feature, despite Google's efforts to attract more users by adding it to the One membership subscription.
The VPN was initially offered exclusively within the Premium plan at $10 per month, but was later extended to the more affordable Basic plan at $2 per month, likely in a bid to broaden its user base.
Despite this strategic adjustment, utilization rates failed to meet expectations, prompting Google to reassess the service's viability.
Google remains committed to optimizing its offerings in response to evolving market dynamics, with an emphasis on scalability and user-centric design.
The decision to discontinue the VPN service follows a trajectory of similar adjustments within Google's portfolio, reflecting the company's commitment to innovation and adaptability.
VPNs are essential for protecting online privacy, security, and accessibility, making it difficult for third parties to monitor your online activities and ensuring that your sensitive information remains private and secure.
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Discontinue One
Google has decided to discontinue the VPN service for Google One subscribers, a move that was announced to affected users via email.
The email informed subscribers that the VPN feature would be phased out later this year, with the exact date not specified.
Google One subscribers will no longer have access to the VPN service after it's discontinued.
Despite this change, owners of Pixel 7 and newer devices will retain access to a Pixel-exclusive VPN, which will remain accessible beyond the service's discontinuation date.
The decision to discontinue the VPN service was made to prioritize Google's resources and align services with user demand.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Google VPN still working?
Google VPN is no longer available, and it will stop working on June 20, 2024. If you're looking for alternative VPN options, we have more information on what this means for Google One subscribers.
Is Pixel VPN going away?
No, Pixel VPN is not going away. However, its functionality will be upgraded.
Sources
- https://socialbarrel.com/google-one-vpn-is-shutting-down/144916/
- https://chromeunboxed.com/google-one-vpn-is-officially-shut-down-what-this-means-for-users/
- https://www.zdnet.com/article/google-to-shut-down-google-one-vpn-on-june-20-here-are-some-alternatives/
- https://www.androidpolice.com/best-google-one-vpn-alternatives/
- https://www.techradar.com/phones/google-one-vpn-is-shutting-down-for-good-because-no-one-uses-it
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