ExpressVPN unveils 'industry-first hybrid' VPN browser extension — and takes on the Metaverse with new Meta Quest app

• Dedicated ExpressVPN app now available on the Meta Quest store
• The hybrid VPN extension includes browser-only and full-device protection
• Smart Routing allows site-specific VPN locations in the same window

ExpressVPN has announced a major expansion of its service, launching a dedicated app for Meta Quest VR headsets and a new "hybrid" browser extension that aims to solve a long-standing frustration for privacy-conscious users.

The move sees the provider — which TechRadar's reviewers rank as one of the best VPN apps right now — pushing into the mixed-reality space while simultaneously overhauling how we protect our web traffic on desktop.

While the arrival of a native Meta Quest app is significant for gamers and VR enthusiasts, the new VPN browser extension is arguably the bigger technical leap. By combining a lightweight proxy and a full-device remote control into a single interface, ExpressVPN claims to have created an "industry-first" solution that adapts to how you actually browse.

The 'Hybrid' Advantage

Until now, VPN browser extensions have typically fallen into one of two camps: they are either simple proxies that only spoof your IP address within the browser (leaving other apps exposed) or they are merely remote controls that switch your desktop VPN app on and off.

ExpressVPN’s new offering bridges this gap. It functions as a standalone proxy when you need speed and lightweight protection for browsing, but can instantly toggle to control the full desktop application when you need device-wide encryption.

"Most VPNs make you choose: either a simple browser proxy or a full-device app. Our new hybrid browser extension does both in a single tool," said Shay Peretz, Group Chief Operating Officer at ExpressVPN, in the official announcement.

Now, Peretz explains, users can decide whether protect just their browser activities when they want something lightweight, or switch to full-device coverage. "We're excited to launch this first-of-its-kind extension in the industry," he added.

Flexibility isthe key here. A 'Smart Routing' function also lets users assign different VPN locations to specific websites. For example, you could browse a local news site with your real IP (using split tunneling rules) or a specific proxy location, while streaming content from a different region in another tab, all without constantly toggling settings.

Crucially, the extension retains critical privacy safety nets, including WebRTC leak blocking and HTML5 geolocation spoofing. This ensures that your physical location isn't inadvertently exposed by browser vulnerabilities, a common issue with lesser proxy tools.

Privacy in the Metaverse

Alongside the browser news, the partnership with Meta Quest brings full-device VPN protection directly to the headset via the Meta App Store.

VR devices are increasingly treated as general-purpose computers, used for everything from social networking to productivity. A native app ensures that all traffic entering and leaving the headset is encrypted, rather than just the web browser. This is particularly vital for preventing ISP throttling during high-bandwidth VR streaming or gaming.

However, ExpressVPN confirmed that the new hybrid extension functionality will also be coming to the Meta Quest browser soon. This will offer a "browser-only" mode for the headset, giving users a lighter option if they don't want to run the full background process during intensive gaming sessions where every frame counts.

The provider also noted that the new extension supports its proprietary Lightway protocol, which now includes post-quantum protections, future-proofing user data against next-generation decryption threats.

The hybrid extension is available now for Chrome and Firefox, with the Meta Quest integration following shortly. For a deeper dive into the provider's performance and features, check out our full ExpressVPN review.

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