Google recently announced the discontinuation of a key phone feature, leaving many of its fans bewildered. The feature, originally touted as an additional layer of online protection for Android users, is part of Google One, the company's comprehensive backup subscription service.
Google One offers users storage for photos, videos, and additional space for Gmail, along with the added bonus of a VPN for privacy protection.
Reasons Behind Google One VPN Shutdown
According to a statement provided to 9to5Google, Google decided to discontinue the VPN feature due to low usage among users.
Despite its potential benefits for enhancing online privacy, the feature failed to attract sufficient traction since the company said that people simply weren't using it".
How Google One Users Reacted
The announcement sparked disappointment among Google One users, who expressed their discontent online. Many lamented the simplicity and convenience of the feature, viewing its removal as an inconvenience. Some users criticized Google for the shrinking benefits of Google One subscriptions, citing recent service cancellations and the transition of others to free offerings.
As spotted by The Sun on Reddit, one user said that he was "still using Google One" when Google announced that it would be discontinued.
Perfect Replacement For Soon-to-Be Phased Out VPN
In light of the impending shutdown of the VPN feature in Google One, users may explore alternative VPN options available. While several free VPN alternatives exist, users are advised to conduct thorough research to assess their privacy policies and suitability for their needs.
They can use Proton VPN which offers a free option with access to servers in the Netherlands, Japan, and the United States, albeit limited to one device at a time. On top of that, the Opera web browser is also available and it includes a built-in free VPN feature for desktop and Android users, providing access to servers in three general locations.
If the first two Google One VPN alternatives are not appealing to you, you can also explore TunnelBear VPN. This offers users access to its global servers, although usage is restricted to 500MB of data per month.
Google One holds promising user growth, reaching the 100 million subscribers milestone in late January, but its VPN feature did not live up to expectations.
In other news, a reliable tech tipster said that his sources have ideas about the release of AI chip-infused Macs.
According to Mark Gurman's sources, three new M4 Mac variants are coming this year. They are hiding under codenames Hidra, Brava, and Donan.
Regular Macs are not the only gadgets that will receive a refreshed design and features. It is anticipated that the MacBook Air and Mac Studio will get an upgrade they need in late 2024.
The Mac Pro will also undergo the same treatment, but it might take at least 2025 to achieve that.
