Home / Technology / TunnelBear Free Cuts Key Features
TunnelBear Free Cuts Key Features
27 Jan
Summary
- TunnelBear removed split tunneling and country selection from its free plan.
- These feature changes took effect with app version 4.8.1.
- Costs are cited as the primary reason for restricting free features.
TunnelBear has discontinued access to split tunneling, country selection, and future customization features for its free users. These changes were implemented with the update to version 4.8.1, as indicated by Google Play Store release notes. Free users will still have access to the 2 GB monthly data limit and core security features like VigilantBear and GhostBear. However, server location selection will now be randomized, aligning it with other services like Proton VPN Free.
The company attributes these restrictions to the increasing costs associated with maintaining its services. TunnelBear emphasizes its commitment to providing a free option without ads or data tracking, unlike many other VPN providers. By limiting features on the free tier, TunnelBear aims to improve overall service performance, reliability, and security, enabling continued independent audits and network expansion.
This strategic move is intended to encourage more users to upgrade to TunnelBear's paid subscription, which offers advanced features and a more robust experience. A three-year subscription is available for $3.33 per month. Users of TunnelBear's Bandwidth Program will continue to enjoy all features without changes.
