Google One VPN, a service that provided an extra layer of online protection, is officially discontinued. The VPN was originally launched in October 2020 for users subscribed to the $9.99 per month plan. It became available across all Google One plans, including the $1.99 per month option, in March 2023. Users accessed the VPN through the Google One app on Android and iOS, with dedicated clients also released for Mac and Windows users.
Despite its availability, the company stated that usage rates were low. This ultimately led to the decision to discontinue the service. Google explained that retiring Google One VPN allows the company to focus on developing other highly requested features. These features may include expanding access to Fitbit Premium and Nest Aware, which are currently only offered to Google One subscribers in the UK.
While Google One VPN is no more, Pixel phone owners retain access to a similar service. Pixel 7, 7 Pro, 7a, Fold, 8, 8 Pro, and 8a users can utilize "Pixel VPN by Google" as a benefit of their phone purchase. Access is granted through the Play Store or Android 14 QPR3. It's worth noting that Pixel VPN by Google does not currently offer two features that were previously available through Google One VPN. Users cannot select a broader IP address region, and there is no option to automatically block internet access if the VPN connection drops. Google Fi Wireless subscribers also continue to have VPN access as part of their mobile plan.
For those who previously relied on Google One's VPN service, the discontinuation took effect at 12 p.m. PT on June 21. While existing VPN connections might have remained active until the next instance of internet interruption, users can no longer establish new connections. The Google One mobile app now displays a message stating, "VPN by Google One is no longer available." This message replaces the previous VPN tile in the app's interface following the latest Android update (version 1.223.x). On desktop clients, users are informed that "VPN isn't available for this device or account."
Google advises users to completely remove the VPN by Google One app from their Mac and Windows devices. Detailed instructions for uninstalling the app on both operating systems are available on the Google One support website. Additionally, users are encouraged to delete the VPN profile from their Android and iOS devices. Step-by-step guidance for removing the VPN profile on these platforms is also provided on the Google One support website.