ExpressVPN is taking its desktop VPN apps to the next level with the introduction of its new Qt cross-platform framework.
Constant innovation is why we rate ExpressVPN as one of the best VPNs around and this release brings some highly sought after features – most notably split tunneling on Mac.
We're rebuilding our desktop apps for Linux, macOS, and Windows using Qt.Big upgrades include:✅ Linux: Speed test & Dedicated IP ✅ macOS 11+ (beta): Split tunneling & WireGuard protocol ✅ Windows 10, 11 (coming soon): Integrated speed test & Advanced Network Lock✅ A… pic.twitter.com/06wUEGjm6iDecember 17, 2025
Split tunneling comes to Mac
ExpressVPN said split tunneling for macOS 11 and above has been one of the provider's most highly requested features – the Qt Mac app finally answers those pleas.
Split tunneling allows you to select which apps are protected by your VPN connection and which aren't. ExpressVPN said this can be especially beneficial for printers and any tool that only runs effectively on a home network.
A full command-line interface (CLI) – known as expressvpnctl – has been added. ExpressVPN said power users have been asking for deeper control and CLI enables VPN task automation, integration into scripts, and session management via the terminal.
Finally, network automation has come to Mac. Rules can be set up so ExpressVPN responds to different environments. For example, it can auto-connect on public Wi-Fi and stay idle on your home network.
The ExpressVPN Qt Mac app is currently in beta and requires macOS 11 (Big Sur) or newer. The app can only be downloaded from the beta channel of ExpressVPN's website.
Due to Apple's restrictions, it cannot be downloaded from the App Store. Only the new Catalyst-based native Mac app is available on the App Store – which doesn't contain the advanced Qt features.
Unified desktop apps
ExpressVPN's Qt Linux and macOS versions share "a unified design language" and the provider said this is the next step in how it's building its desktop apps. This allows for a faster delivery of features and a unified user experience across ExpressVPN apps.
Qt has been described as a "shared toolkit" and features no longer need to be built multiple times, for multiple platforms.
The speed test tool has been upgraded to a more advanced implementation. You'll see two measurements: one via your regular IP address and one via your VPN connection. This gives you a clearer picture of network performance.
A redesigned interface has a larger footprint, and now includes the addition of a map – as seen with ExpressVPN's recent mobile app update. Connection and server information sits below the simple on/off button ExpressVPN is known for, while settings are located in a slide-in panel. Light and dark modes are also supported.
Post-quantum WireGuard has been added as a third protocol for both Linux and Mac – joining Lightway and OpenVPN.
Shay Peretz, Chief Operating Officer at ExpressVPN, said: "Moving to Qt represents a shift in how we build and deliver desktop experiences."
"Instead of developing features separately for each platform, we're able to create a unified experience that lets us deliver highly requested updates, like split tunneling and CLI control, more quickly, while maintaining the performance and security ExpressVPN is known for."
What's new on Linux?
In addition to the above, Linux users can now access Dedicated IP from within the app. Dedicated IP provides a VPN IP address only you can use. It helps avoid CAPTCHAs and is useful for accessing sites which monitor changes in IP addresses.
The Qt app is now the ExpressVPN default on Linux. It replaces the CLI-only version, which is being deprecated in January 2026.
Linux users can download the new app from ExpressVPN's website for distributions equivalent to Debian 11 (Bullseye) or newer – including Ubuntu 24.04+, Fedora 35+, and RHEL/CentOS 9+.
Improved headless installation, with reduced system dependencies, has been introduced for anyone installing ExpressVPN in server or minimal environments.
The Qt-based Windows VPN app will enter beta in the coming weeks, bringing the same unified design, cross-platform framework, and advanced features.
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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