Google Fi VPN Rebrands and Pixel Users Transition to Built-In VPN
Google Fi, known for its flexible mobile service and various perks, is making changes to its VPN offering. The service, previously known as "Google Fi VPN," is undergoing a rebranding effort and a shift in how it’s delivered to its subscribers, particularly those with Pixel devices.
The most immediate change is the renaming of the "Google Fi VPN" to "VPN by Google." Google states that this is purely a cosmetic adjustment aimed at aligning the branding across its product ecosystem. The company assures current users that this name change will not affect the underlying technology or functionality of the VPN service for most Android and iOS users. Subscribers can still manage their VPN connection through the Google Fi Wireless companion app, which recently received an update adding a dedicated "Plan" tab at the bottom. This tab provides easy access to manage data plans, billing information, and other account settings.
However, a more significant alteration is underway for Google Fi subscribers who own Pixel 7 or newer devices. These users are being transitioned from the "Google Fi VPN" (now "VPN by Google" after the rebranding) to the built-in "VPN by Google" feature that is natively available on Pixel phones and tablets. This built-in VPN was first introduced with the launch of the Pixel 8 and has since been rolled out to all compatible Pixel devices, including the Pixel Tablet.
The move to the built-in "VPN by Google" is intended to provide Pixel users with a more streamlined and integrated VPN experience. It leverages the device’s native capabilities and ensures that the VPN is seamlessly integrated into the operating system.
Google is guiding Pixel users through this transition with clear instructions and explanations within the Google Fi app. When navigating to the Privacy & security section within the app, a notification explains that "VPN controls are moving: Beginning May 22, VPN controls are moving to Settings. To make sure your online activity is protected, turn on VPN by Google now." This message acts as a prompt for users to initiate the switch to the built-in VPN.
Upon tapping the notification, the toggle for the original Google Fi VPN disappears from the Fi app. Instead, users are presented with a "Manage VPN in Settings" shortcut. This shortcut redirects them to the VPN settings within the device’s system settings, where they can configure and manage the built-in "VPN by Google."
The built-in "VPN by Google" offers several advantages over the previous Google Fi VPN implementation. One key benefit is that it is updated directly through the Google Play Store. This ensures that users always have the latest security patches and feature enhancements for their VPN client, without needing to wait for updates to the Google Fi app itself.
Another significant improvement is the availability of a Quick Settings Tile for the built-in VPN. This allows users to quickly and easily enable or disable the VPN directly from the Quick Settings panel, which is accessible by swiping down from the top of the screen. This provides a convenient and intuitive way to control their VPN connection without having to navigate through multiple settings menus.
In summary, Google Fi’s VPN changes involve two key aspects: a rebranding of the "Google Fi VPN" to "VPN by Google" for all Fi subscribers on Android and iOS devices, and a transition for Pixel 7 and newer owners to the built-in "VPN by Google" feature on their devices. The rebranding is primarily a cosmetic change, while the move to the built-in VPN is intended to provide Pixel users with a more integrated, feature-rich, and easily manageable VPN experience. The introduction of the Quick Settings Tile and Play Store updates for the built-in VPN are welcome additions that enhance its usability and ensure it remains secure and up-to-date. While the branding might be changing the core functionality of the VPN remains. The main difference is how the Pixel users will interact with the function. The new integration with settings allows for a more seamless experience, instead of using the Google Fi app.
