Google adds more convenience to its free VPN built into Pixel phones

Source: Android Authority

Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

TL;DR

• Google’s free VPN for Pixel phones is getting a useful upgrade.
• Its quick‑settings tiles now show the VPN’s status.
• The update has reportedly begun rolling out as part of a server‑side flip.

What’s changed?

The built‑in VPN by Google now provides more information directly on its quick‑settings tile.

• The larger 2×1 tile (two columns, one row) previously displayed only the text “VPN by Google” and changed color when the VPN was active.

• The updated tile now indicates one of four states:

  • Connected – solid‑filled rectangular tile with curved corners.
  • Paused – lighter‑shade pill‑shaped icon.
  • Connecting… – shows a connecting status.
  • Can’t connect – indicates a failure to connect.

Previously, users had to long‑press the tile to see the exact status; the new behavior removes that extra step.

9to5Google notes that the changes are part of the latest version and may roll out after Google flips the switch on the server side.

How to enable VPN by Google

1. Open Settings → Network & internet → VPN → VPN by Google.
2. Accept the terms and enable the VPN.
3. A tile will appear in the quick‑settings pane.
4. Tap the pencil icon, select the VPN tile, and use the grab handle to expand it to the 2×1 size.

Note: The status cannot be displayed on a 1×1 tile due to space constraints.

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