Feb 12, 2026
3 min read
Google Pixel VPN now displays real-time status in Quick Settings, instantly improving privacy visibility, security awareness, and user experience.
Directory
- Updated Pixel VPN quick settings now show real-time connected, suspended, connected and unable to connect statuses directly on the tile.
- VPN from Google status bar improves privacy visibility and security awareness without opening the settings menu.
- Pixel VPN server update offers improved performance for quick settings without requiring app updates.
Thanks to the built-in VPN available in Pixels, every user (when using open or untrusted networks) could have some form of privacy;however, prior to launch, there was no real-time visual representation of the connection status.
If you can't see the Quick Settings box, the VPN might not be working, and you won't be able to see the status until you go into Settings.Google puts VPN mode directly in the Quick Settings box.There are four different active modes:
The Quick Settings tile is populated, which means the network is currently protected
The VPN is currently turned off, but can be connected later.
This is displayed when the VPN connects to the Internet.
This notification tells you that the service cannot be accessed and therefore cannot be connected to the Internet.
Why this update is important for privacy and security
Previously, status messages were only visible in the full-featured Pixel VPN interface.With the addition of the VPN status tile in Quick Settings, users can monitor the status of their VPN connection without having to use the VPN interface.We believe this new feature will reduce confusion and provide greater visibility into your ability to protect your connection to the network.
A small significant improvement in quality of life:
While the addition of status notification tiles in Quick Settings isn't a major feature like adding a feature to choose the type of server to connect to or routing options, we think it's an important improvement to the functionality of one of the Pixel's core systems and will be a significant benefit for those who use the VPN frequently.
Previously, the Quick Settings tile repeated the text "Google VPN" on each of its two lines and was not helpful in providing additional information to the user.
Now the new box gives a clear header, so users: If your phone is secured with public Wi-Fi, is the VPN stack or offline?
Not connected yet
This new behavior not only makes things more user-friendly, but also improves security awareness.The "Enabled" status tells the user that their data is encrypted, driving home the threat of "Unable to Connect" - their data may not be protected.
Changes are implemented.How and when to wait:
Slash uses an open-source, conversational, and normal-functioning tag in its name that presents itself as light-speed broadband and wireless burst.
- New types of tiles can be seen without updating the app
- Phased rollout; some users will get it before others.
- Some Pixel devices may not receive the update at the same time.
The updated tile works with a larger 2×1 size;only 1 × 1 allows you to change without displaying the label.
If the user has not yet added the VPN tile, the user can add it by opening Quick Settings, tapping the pencil, and dragging the Google VPN tile to add it.
The change is part of Google's push to offer users at least two different VPN services, so they can choose a VPN that suits their personal preferences.In doing so, Google is offering the Pixel 7 and newer models an updated version of Google One VPN, "VPN by Google."It replaces and replaces the original Google One VPN, which is part of the phone plans offered to customers who buy phones through carriers and telco deals.
Google will also redesign Google VPN to look like Your Device and provide better performance and better connection metrics on the box.
Bottom line - small changes with big day-to-day impact
At first glance, the Quick Settings update is a minor update to Pixel VPN.
The truth is, this update is easier to use and more efficient by showing important connection information where and when users need to see it most.In our world todayIn terms of dating and digital safetyThis is a very important development.
Quick Pixel VPN settings updates make it easier for the end user to see the status of their VPN connection with fewer taps, making the built-in Pixel VPN more visible and generally easier to use.
Although significant progress has been made in terms of VPN server customization, the Quick Settings update offers another handy improvement to improve the overall user experience of the phone.
