Users can’t use the feature, but the framework is in place

Mar 14, 2015 09:01 GMT  ·  By

This week Google finally rolled out the Android 5.1 Lollipop update we’ve been talking about a few months prior to the event.

The new build is now being offered on several Nexus devices and Google is also updating its own Android One host in India.

The Nexus 6 also got the update not long ago and users are reporting the build has a very benefic impact on their phone, making it more efficient and upgrading its performance.

Well, as more and more people have started receiving the new Android 5.1 Lollipop update, some functions that are deeply embedded into the new build have started to be dug out.

Google has an inactive VPN function embedded in Android 5.1

It seems all the fuss about keeping information private on a mobile device has really made Google think of ways to make it happen on Android gadgets.

The search giant is thinking of Wi-Fi hotspots in particular and how hard it can be to secure yourself on an open network.

The folks at Pockatables have discovered that deep inside Android 5.1 lies a service that lets you set up a Virtual Private Network (VPN) right from the comfort of your Android mobile phone (or tablet).

It turns out there’s an app called “Google Connectivity Services,” but launching it isn’t very easy. You’ll probably need to use a secondary app in order to create a shortcut icon of the first on the home screen.

Once you’re inside the app, you’re given the option of opening a network (a Wi-Fi hotspot to be more precise) via VPN in order to protect your data.

You can’t actually use the app to set up a VPN for the time being, but given that the framework is in place, we can assume Google will be rolling out the functionality in future versions of Android.

Keep in mind that Google has confirmed the existence of its upcoming wireless carrier service, so maybe the elusive VPN function is all part of the plan.

Google reportedly intends to use Sprint, T-Mobile and Wi-Fi, and if this is the case, customers need to know that their data transfers over Wi-Fi are safe.

Inactive VPN function in Android 5.1 shows up (4 Images)

Google rollled out Android 5.1 this week
Google Connectivity Services app in Android 5.1Setting up VPN request
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