ProtonVPN crushes ads and trackers on Android TV app with latest update

• Proton VPN embeds NetShield Ad-Blocker into its Android TV app
• The feature enables users to screen fewer ads
• New updates also minimise manual settings in the app

Tired of the usual ads popping up while you watch your favorite shows on Android TV? Proton VPN has you sorted.

The VPN provider behind one of the best VPNs on our list has announced that NetShield, Proton's very own ad-blocker system, is now embedded in its Android TV app.

The feature, which Proton VPN already offers on Linux, Windows, macOS, and iPadOS, empowers users to neutralise ads and clear trackers while boosting users' privacy.

Available on Google Play Store, the Proton VPN app on Android TV gives users access to a wide range of unrestricted streaming libraries from over 130 countries, while boosting their privacy on the way, by installing the app directly on their Android TV or Google TV.

The Ad-Blocker on the Android TV app is included for all users who have subscribed to a paid Proton VPN plan and is enabled by default. Users can opt out via the settings menu if they wish.

Greater privacy with fewer annoying ads

Android TV is one of many operating systems for smart TVs, including Amazon Fire TV, Roku TV, and Samsung Tizen. The smart platform uses Google's Chromecast system software, which allows streaming from mobile devices and apps such as YouTube, Netflix, and Spotify directly to your TV.

When enabled, NetShield prevents your device from connecting to domains known to host malware, spyware, or other malicious software. At the same time, it blocks domains used by adtech firms to serve ads and track user behaviour.

The feature works with Proton VPN's dedicated DNS servers, which check these domains against databases of domains known to host malicious software. If one of the domains matches, Proton's DNS server automatically blocks that resource from loading for a safer and cleaner user experience.

A handy dashboard also shows the number of ads and trackers that have been blocked, and the amount of data that has been saved during the session.

In addition, Proton has announced a new feature that allows users to configure the Proton VPN app to start automatically every time they turn on their Android TV. This should ensure an instant connection for better protection, without unnecessary manual settings.

These new tools underscore how essential it is to have a Smart TV VPN, offering benefits that go beyond the ability to unblock geo-restricted global content from channels such as Hulu or Netflix.

Experienced VPN users know that it's always wise to have a VPN active as standard practice for online security when streaming online, to keep your viewing habits private from potential snoops and third parties − whether it's for a film marathon with friends or a solo viewing session.

Proton's team of scientists is also aware of this, as Proton VPN continues to release major updates as part of the company's autumn/winter 2025 roadmap.

While Proton offers one of the best free VPN on the market, you need to upgrade to a paid plan to benefit from its streaming unlocking capabilities (and the NetShield integration). The good news is that now, a stone's throw from Black Friday, is the most convenient time of the year to do so...

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