Google Fi VPN becomes VPN by Google – what this means for you

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Is there a difference?

Multicoloured Google logo on white background
(Image credit: NurPhoto / Getty Images)

Subscribers to Google Fi are getting a VPN rebrand, as Google Fi VPN has become VPN by Google.

Google has stated the switch is a simple name change to ensure more consistent branding and will not include any technical or functional changes.

How to enable VPN by Google

Owners of Pixel 7 and newer devices, and the Pixel Tablet, will now be able to use the built-in VPN by Google service. It's better integrated with the system and makes for a more seamless experience.

The VPN can currently be accessed from the "Privacy & Security" tab within the Google Fi app. However this will be changing on May 22. From then on, all VPN settings will be controlled from your Pixel device settings.

Screenshot of Google Fi VPN settings

(Image credit: 9to5google / Future)

After toggling your VPN on/off, users will see a "manage VPN in settings" shortcut. To ensure your device and subscription continues to operate smoothly, click "Update VPN now" when prompted.

Can you trust VPN by Google?

VPN by Google launched in summer 2024 and was first seen as a Google Pixel 8 exclusive. It replaced Google One VPN and involved some design and functionality changes.

It was subsequently extended to a wider range of devices and is currently available in 25 countries – including a range of European countries, Australia, Japan, Canada, and the U.S.

But Google's privacy credentials aren't exactly glowing. Along with other big tech companies, it has questionable privacy policies and has handed over your data to western governments.

Cartoon of person peering through US flag

(Image credit: Moor Studio / Getty Images)

In terms of features and performance, VPN by Google can't match the leading VPN providers. Plus, the provider states that "use of VPN may increase data costs depending on your plan."

Despite it being a handy extra feature to your Pixel device and Google plans, we wouldn't recommend it as a reliable VPN.

Our best VPN guide breaks down some of our favourite providers and no matter your needs or budget, there'll be a VPN for you.

We also have guides detailing the fastest VPNs, the best cheap VPN, the best streaming VPN, the most private VPN, and the best free VPN.

Disclaimer

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example: 1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service). 2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad. We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

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George Phillips
George Phillips
Staff Writer

George is a Staff Writer at Tom's Guide, covering VPN, privacy, and cybersecurity news. He is especially interested in digital rights and censorship, and its interplay with politics. Outside of work, George is passionate about music, Star Wars, and Karate.

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