Android 5.1 may eventually include VPN service

Android 5.1 may eventually include VPN service

It remains unclear when Google will officially launch this feature.

Google began rolling out Android 5.1 last week and rumors are already swirling over potential enhancements still to come. Most intriguingly, Pocketables editor-in-chief John Freml discovered that Google may be experimenting with a system-wide VPN service to keep its users’ data safe on public networks.

While exploring Android 5.1 on his Google Nexus phone, Freml found an app called “Google Connectivity Services.” After jumping through some hoops to get the app to open, he was eventually brought to a screen that said, “To help protect you on open Wi-Fi networks, your data will be transmitted securely through a Google VPN.” Clicking “Got it” then brought him to a standard VPN connection request screen, but he was unable to connect to any VPN at that time.

It remains unclear when Google will officially launch this feature, and just how widespread it will be. It is possible that the service will only be available to certain types of users. Indeed, Gizmodo wonders if it could be related to Google’s upcoming wireless service.

But all this speculation about services that have not even been released yet ignores the fact that 5.1 – known as “Lollipop” – already comes with features most users will want to get their hands on right now. Along with the standard stability and performance upgrades, Lollipop brings support for multiple SIM cards, Device Protection and high definition (HD) voice on compatible phones.

The Device Protection feature could prove incredibly useful in today’s security-conscious environment. With this anti-theft service, users can keep a lost or stolen device locked until they sign in with their Google account, even if the device is reset to factory settings.

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