Pixel VPN Quick Settings Tile Gets Status Updates on Android 16 QPR1

Pixel phone users will soon have a more direct view of their VPN connection status thanks to a recent update to Google’s Pixel VPN by Google application. The update introduces a status indicator directly within the Quick Settings tile, replacing a previously redundant display.

Previously, the 2×1 Quick Settings tile simply displayed “VPN by Google” twice. The revised tile now shows whether the VPN is “Connected,” “Paused,” “Connecting…” or “Can’t connect,” offering users immediate feedback without needing to open the full VPN application. When connected, the tile is likewise visually active, appearing filled with a rounded rectangle.

The change, first reported by 9to5Google, streamlines the user experience, eliminating the need to navigate to Settings > Network & internet > VPN to check connection status. A long-press on the Quick Settings tile will still directly open the VPN settings, according to the report.

The update, rolling out with version 2025.12.19.x of VPN by Google, is not yet universally available on all Pixel devices, as it also requires a server-side component to be activated.

Google’s built-in VPN, available on Pixel 7 and later phones, as well as the Pixel Tablet, is offered at no extra cost in supported countries. The VPN automatically connects when joining a new network, and Google’s support documentation notes that the service will prompt users to exclude carrier-associated apps from the VPN connection for optimal performance. Users can adjust these settings later.

This update arrives alongside minor patch updates for the Recorder and Screenshots apps, though those updates did not introduce new features, according to 9to5Google.