VPN by Google One is being shut down by Google: Report

Google has recently revealed its decision to shut down the VPN by Google One service, citing a lack of user engagement and the need to focus on more popular features within its suite of offerings. The company is notifying Google One users of this change via email, although an exact shutdown date has not been specified, with the benefit expected to be phased out “later this year.”

Google introduced VPN by Google One as a competitive alternative to popular virtual private network (VPN) services like Nord VPN and Express VPN, making it accessible across all Google One subscription plans, including the entry-level plan priced at $1.99 per month.

The decision to discontinue the VPN service aligns with Google’s strategy to reallocate resources towards features that resonate more with users. According to a statement provided to 9to5Google, Google confirmed that the discontinuation was driven by low usage levels of the VPN by Google One among its subscriber base.

Existing users of the VPN by Google One service will be redirected to explore third-party VPN alternatives. However, Google clarified that Pixel device owners, specifically those with Pixel 7 or newer models, will still have access to Google’s VPN functionality through their Pixel settings.

In addition to the VPN discontinuation, Google is also making changes to its services in other areas. Notably, free shipping for select print orders from Google Photos will cease in Canada, the UK, the US, and the EU beginning May 15.

While Google aimed to provide a comprehensive suite of services through Google One, the limited adoption of the VPN feature has prompted a strategic shift in resource allocation. Moving forward, Google remains committed to enhancing its suite of products and services, focusing on areas that demonstrate higher user engagement and align with evolving consumer preferences. The discontinuation of the VPN by Google One service suggests that it might not have had much users or maybe it was costing too much for the company to run the service. This also means that the service is added to a huge list of services in the Google graveyard and it has now become a meme among the tech community.