Malcolm Owen
Google is shutting down its subscription-based VPN by Google One service later in 2024, with the feature heading to the Google graveyard due to being underused by its customers.
Google One is the search giant's cloud storage service, allowing users to expand how much they can store online, as well as enabling a number of extra features. As part of its shake-up of the service, the VPN element is going to be taken away.
In an email to subscribers seen by Android Authority, Google explains a number of changes that it will be making on May 15. Along with opening up AI-based Google Photos features to more users, it is also going to phase out two benefits.
Along with ending free shipping for print orders from Google Photos from May 15, it will also be limiting access to VPN by Google One later in 2024. Existing users will be pointed in the direction of alternative services, and other features of the subscription will continue to operate as normal.
The change mostly affects subscribers of the service who do not use Google's hardware. The company says that Pixel users will still be able to access VPN from Google using a Pixel 7 or newer device via device settings.
Users of Google Fi will also be unaffected by the change, with that service still offering VPN access to users.
Google explained to 9to5Google that the VPN is being discontinued as it found "people simply weren't using it." It adds that the depreciation of the feature will allow the team to refocus on more in-demand elements of Google One.
In March 2023, Google expanded access to its VPN to all Google One subscribers, including iPhone and Android users.
If you're looking for another VPN for iPhone solution right now, Surfshark.com and ExpressVPN.com are both offering VPN discounts to new customers. Prices start at $2.29 per month.
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5 Comments
At this rate, they’re going to have to buy more virtual land to expand the Google Graveyard …
LOL.
It was stupid of Google to try. People know they aren’t going to give you privacy but would be secure from Joe next door snooping, but Google and their business partners, governments, etc. would have unfettered access. Google may not actively track you in the traditional ways, but they’ definitely have constant records that effectively track you. Being that Google is issuing the encryption, they can also decrypt, no matter what they say.