Google has announced that it will be shutting down its Google One VPN service, citing low usage among its users. The decision to discontinue the VPN service was confirmed by Android Authority and 9to5Google, with an email sent out to Google One subscribers informing them of the shutdown.

Introduced in 2020 as an added feature for Google One subscribers, the VPN service provided an extra layer of security and privacy for users. Google One is a cloud storage subscription plan that enables users to purchase additional storage for Gmail, Drive, and Google Photos. Initially available only for the expensive 2TB tier at $10 per month, the VPN service was later extended to all Google One tiers, including the more affordable $2-per-month option.

Currently, Google offers three VPN products in different market segments. The Google One VPN, available on Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac platforms, is the VPN service that will be discontinued. The "Pixel VPN by Google One," which was included with Pixel smartphones, and the Google Fi VPN, exclusively for Google Fi Android and iOS customers, will continue to operate, potentially with new branding.

The Google One VPN boasted the most extensive platform support, making its discontinuation significant as it effectively terminates Google's VPN support for Windows and Mac users. However, the decision seems to be driven by low user engagement and technical challenges. The Windows client was reportedly riddled with bugs, making it more practical for Google to shut down the service rather than invest in fixing it.

The shutdown date for the Google One VPN has not been specified yet, but a message on the relevant support page informs users that the phasing out process will take place "later in 2024."

With this move, Google aims to streamline its product offerings and focus on services that receive higher user adoption. The discontinuation of the Google One VPN reflects Google's commitment to delivering efficient and reliable products that align with user preferences.

Users who still rely on Google One VPN are encouraged to seek alternative VPN solutions to ensure their online security and privacy needs are met.