In Three Points:
- Pixel 8 series received a built-in VPN app (“VPN by Google”).
- Pixel Tablet briefly gained access to the VPN but is now incompatible.
- The omission is surprising as Pixel Tablet shares hardware and price tiers with compatible devices.
For a fleeting few days, Pixel Tablet users rejoiced at the chance to leverage Google’s novel VPN service, “VPN by Google.” This integrated VPN experience, introduced with the Pixel 8 series, bypassed the need for the separate Google One app. Initially, the Play Store listing even displayed a “Pixel VPN by Google” branding, solidifying the impression of wider accessibility.
However, recent updates have dashed these hopes. The Play Store listing has reverted to the generic “VPN by Google,” mirroring the on-device name. Furthermore, the latest update that brought the VPN to the Pixel 7 series and Fold devices (without requiring the Android 14 QPR3 beta) seemingly removed compatibility for the Pixel Tablet.
While the official stance has always listed the Pixel 7, 7 Pro, 7a, Fold, 8, 8 Pro, and 8a as compatible devices, the Pixel Tablet’s brief inclusion and subsequent exclusion come as a surprise. This is especially true considering the Pixel Tablet belongs to the same hardware generation as the Pixel 7 and occupies a similar price point when compared to the A-series Pixels.
This unexpected turn of events leaves Pixel Tablet owners without access to a potentially valuable security and privacy tool. Hopefully, Google will clarify the situation and address the seemingly arbitrary exclusion of the Pixel Tablet from the list of compatible devices.
