Google VPN now available for Pixel Tablet and strange WhatsApp bug on Android Auto adds ‘Oh’ to messages
Google VPN Now Supports Pixel Tablet
Pixel Tablet users now have access to Google’s VPN service, expanding its compatibility beyond the previously limited range of devices. Initially pre-installed for users testing Android 15 QPR2 Beta 1, the VPN can now be downloaded directly from the Google Play Store for Pixel Tablet owners running the stable version of Android 15.
Previously, attempting to install the VPN on the Pixel Tablet returned an error message stating, “This tablet isn’t compatible with this app.” However, that restriction has now been lifted, allowing users to install and configure the service. After downloading, users can access the VPN quickly by adding its Tile to the Quick Settings menu.
Despite the availability, Google has not yet updated its official documentation for the service. The support page still lists the VPN as exclusive to “Pixel 7 & later.” This limitation seemed arbitrary, as the Pixel Tablet briefly supported the service earlier this year before Google disabled it with a server-side update.
With this change, the VPN’s availability feels more official than previous sideloading workarounds that allowed limited access. This unexpected update adds value to the Pixel Tablet, offering users greater privacy and aligning it more closely with Google’s broader device ecosystem.
Android Auto Bug Adds “Oh” to WhatsApp Messages
While Google celebrates an expanded VPN offering, a quirky Android Auto bug is causing some frustration among users. Over the past few weeks, many Android Auto users have reported an issue where WhatsApp messages read aloud by Google Assistant are being appended with an inexplicable “oh” at the end.
Numerous complaints on forums like Reddit confirm this odd behavior, although it appears limited to WhatsApp. Other messaging apps have not been affected, suggesting the problem may stem from an interaction between WhatsApp and Google Assistant rather than Android Auto itself.
Interestingly, this bug has persisted for weeks for some users, though others have yet to encounter it. In testing, the behavior couldn’t be replicated, indicating the issue may not be widespread or is dependent on specific configurations.
So far, the extra “oh” doesn’t seem to disrupt the functionality of the messaging feature—it’s simply an annoyance. Google has not provided a timeline for fixing this issue, but users hope for a resolution soon to restore normal functionality.
Conclusion
The recent updates reflect both progress and quirks in Google’s ecosystem. Pixel Tablet owners now enjoy the added utility of Google VPN, a feature that enhances privacy and complements the device’s versatility. Meanwhile, Android Auto users dealing with the WhatsApp bug can take solace in knowing the issue doesn’t affect usability, though it highlights the occasional unpredictability of voice assistant technology.
Stay tuned for further updates as Google addresses these developments.