Proton VPN announces 2026 updates

Proton VPN has detailed a set of planned updates and improvements to be released by the end of 2026. These changes are outlined in a roadmap published on October 15, covering new features and enhancements across its platform.

Redesigned app for multiple platforms

The company plans to roll out a redesigned application across several operating systems over the next few months. This update will follow the Windows and Android versions released last year and will include major changes to the macOS, iOS/iPadOS, Android TV, and Linux applications. The interface from the Windows app will be used to ensure consistent navigation across all devices. On Android TV, the app is expected to connect faster and make frequently used settings more accessible.

Improved Kill Switch for better privacy

Proton is addressing issues with its Kill Switch on macOS, which previously exposed users' IP addresses during server switching or when the connection failed. The company plans to enhance the Kill Switch on Linux, macOS, and iOS/iPadOS. An advanced version of the Kill Switch for macOS will prevent users from connecting to the internet outside of a secure VPN tunnel.

Pause/Resume button for flexible use

A new Pause/Resume button will be introduced on Windows and Android first, allowing users to temporarily pause their VPN connection. This feature will let users manually or automatically restart the connection using a timer, which is useful when accessing sites or apps that blockVPN connections without the risk of forgetting to reactivate the protection.

Guest mode expands to desktop

Proton's guest mode, already available on mobile, will now come to desktop starting with Windows. This feature allows users to access the free version of theVPN without registering or logging in. However, users must accept limitations such as only one connected device, an automatically assigned server from ten countries, and a "medium" speed. Data usage remains unlimited, and this change may make ProtonVPN more accessible in countries with internet restrictions.

Official support for Arch Linux

ProtonVPN will add official support for Arch Linux, a popular Linux distribution. Currently, the graphical application is officially supported only on Debian, Ubuntu, and Fedora. Arch Linux users will no longer need to rely on community packages from the Arch User Repository (AUR). The command-line version is already available on Arch. Proton is also preparing a Flatpak version of the application, which can be installed on most Linux distributions.

New Proton Protocols for better performance

In mid-August, Proton launched Proton Protocols in beta, a new engine designed to manage connections andVPN protocols. This update is expected to improve performance, stability, and resistance to censorship. Written in Rust, Proton Protocols is based on WireGuard but is better integrated with the programming languages used for Android and iOS apps. The new engine also supports future post-quantum encryption and has already introduced the Stealth protocol to the graphical Linux app. The engine will become the default on all platforms, with Windows already using it, and macOS following shortly after.