Google One VPN Service Ends: What You Need to Know?

As of today, users no longer have access to VPN by Google One, a service initially launched in October 2020. This VPN service was part of the Google One subscription plans, providing an extra layer of online protection for users. The discontinuation marks the end of an era for Google One users who relied on this feature.

History of VPN by Google One

Google launched Google One VPN in October 2020 as part of its $9.99 per month plan. Google extended the service to all Google One plans, including the $1.99 per month offering, in March 2023. The VPN was accessible through the Google One app on Android and iOS devices, and Google later released dedicated clients for Mac and Windows.

Instead of enabling users to access services in other countries through location switching, Google designed the VPN to provide additional online protection. To ensure transparency and security, Google published a white paper on the VPN, had it audited by a third party, and open-sourced the client APIs.

Reason for Shutdown

Google announced the shutdown of VPN by Google One due to low user adoption. The company stated that discontinuing the VPN would allow it to focus on more in-demand features. This could potentially include services like Fitbit Premium and Nest Aware, which are currently available only for UK subscribers.

Alternatives and Remaining Access

Despite the shutdown, owners of certain Pixel devices will continue to have access to a similar service called Pixel VPN by Google. Pixel 7, 7 Pro, 7a, Fold, 8, 8 Pro, and 8a devices come with this service.

You can access the Pixel VPN through the Play Store and Android 14 QPR3 updates, but it doesn’t offer some features of Google One’s original VPN, like expanding IP address regions and blocking internet access when the VPN disconnects.

Additionally, Google Fi Wireless subscribers still have access to a VPN service.

Shutdown Details

Google One disconnected the VPN as of 12 p.m. PT on June 21. While existing connections may continue to work until the next internet loss, the service is no longer functional. The latest Android update (version 1.223.x) has removed the VPN tile from the Google One mobile app and displayed a message stating, “VPN by Google One is no longer available.” The desktop clients also indicate that the VPN is no longer available for use.

Instructions for Uninstallation

Google recommends that users delete the VPN by using the Google One app on Mac and Windows devices.

• Mac:
  1. Open Finder.
  2. In the sidebar, click Applications.
  3. Drag Google One’s VPN to the trash.
• Windows:
  1. Open the Start menu and go to Settings.
  2. Click on Apps.
  3. Under “Apps & Features,” search for VPN by Google One.
  4. Click VPN > Uninstall in Google One.
  5. Confirm the uninstall prompt.

For Android and iOS devices, users can delete the VPN profile as follows:

• Android:
  1. Go to Settings on your phone or tablet.
  2. Tap Connection & Sharing > VPN (this tab may have another name, such as “Network & Internet”).
  3. Next to “Google One,” tap Settings.
  4. Select Delete VPN profile.
  5. If needed, tap Save.
• iOS:
  1. Go to Settings on your iPhone or iPad.
  2. Tap General > VPN & Device Management.
  3. Next to “VPN by Google One,” tap Settings.
  4. Select Delete VPN profile.

The discontinuation of VPN by Google One reflects Google’s ongoing efforts to optimize its services based on user demand and preferences. As users transition away from this service, they can explore alternative VPN solutions to maintain their online security and privacy.