Google rolling out new Pixel VPN via a Play Store update

Google has started rolling out the latest version of Pixel VPN via a Play Store update. You don’t need Android 14 QPR3 to install it on the Pixel 7, 7 Pro, 7a, and Fold.

This update mainly replaces the Google One subscription-based VPN with Pixel VPN for the Pixel 7 series and Fold. Google One will stop offering VPN services on June 20. Pixel 7 owners, however, will receive it as part of their phone purchase. Don’t worry, it’s still free for you!

Originally introduced on the Pixel 8 series, this improved version ditches the pesky “1” notification and replaces it with a subtle key icon in your status bar. You’ll find a new blue shield icon with a “G” at the center. The update also changes the app/service name from “VPN by Google One” to “VPN by Google” and you can see it in Settings > Network & internet > VPN and in Recents multitasking.

The Google Play Store update responsible for enabling VPN by Google is v1.0.635841321 and is rolling out for the Pixel 8, 8 Pro, and 8a. If you’re on Android 14 QPR2 and haven’t received the QPR3 update that bundles the June Feature Drop yet, you can install it directly from the Google Play listing. Tests done by 9to5Google can confirm it works fully, but our Pixels miss out for location reasons.

To set it up, open it from the app listing and enable notifications and mobile network usage. Then, manually add the new Quick Settings Tile and remove the old one.

The VPN by Google is available for Pixel users in select countries and regions, including Austria, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, Norway, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, United Kingdom, and United States.

If you activate the VPN in one of these listed regions, it will continue to work when you travel to other countries or regions on the list.