Google launched its own VPN service in October 2020, initially bundling it with premium 2TB+ Google One plans. Over the years, the company improved its VPN service byexpanding its availability to more marketsand bundling it with cheaper One plans. Despite its limited use case, getting access to a free unlimited VPN with a Google One subscription was a nice perk to have. But in typical Google fashion, the company is killing its VPN service for good “later this year” due to low usage.
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In a statement to9to5Google, a Google spokesperson said the company is phasing out the VPN service from Google One because “people simply weren’t using it.” Instead, the company will direct resources towards improving other popular Google One features. And perhaps that’s why Google is not lowering One’s subscription prices despite taking away one of its perks.
Free Pixel VPN service will continue to be available
There’s a positive aspect to Google killing One’s VPN service. On the Pixel 7, using the Google One VPN causes a persistent notification to show up. This is not the case on thePixel 8series since it ships with a built-in VPN. So, once the Pixel 7 and other compatible devices switch to the built-in Pixel VPN integration, you won’t have to deal with the persistent VPN notification.
Google promised its Pixel VPN would be available for five years when it announced the service alongside the Pixel 7 in October 2022, so it should not be phased out anytime soon. If you don’t want to rely on Google for your VPN needs, you may check out some of ourfavorite VPN services.
Additionally, Google will stop offering free shipping on select print orders placed through Google Photos in Canada, the UK, the US, and the EU starting May 15.
