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Surfshark VPN on Android: features, requirements, how to install
Search 'best VPN' in Google and you’re likely to find Surfshark placed high on the winners' podium.
Its performance and features list put it ahead of most other VPNs and, thanks to great value pricing, it places well in our best cheap VPN rankings, too.
Surfshark’s unlimited connections lets you download the app to almost every platform (Windows, Macs, smart TVs, streaming devices). That includes your Android tech too, of course, with the Android app the exclusive focus of our guide below.
So read on as we walk you through installation, OS compatibility, and some of the powerful VPN features that you’ll have at your fingertips.
What features does Surfshark's Android app include?
Alternative ID
This neat tool lets you generate entire sets of bogus details – a new name, date of birth, and email addresses connected to your own – to enter into online forms like mailing lists.
That way you’ll get less inbox-clogging spam, while keeping personal details out of strangers’ hands and off the dark web.
Available on all Surfshark plans
GPS Override
A VPN will spoof your location, but GPS (Global Positioning System) tracking can undermine your ability to convince onlookers you’re elsewhere – given that it functions independent of the internet.
Luckily, Surfshark’s GPS Override function syncs your GPS coordinates with your selected VPN location. That way, you can access geo-restricted apps as well as persuade cyber snoops you’re exactly where you claim to be.
Available on all Surfshark plans
CleanWeb
If targeted ads are messing up your downtime, bust out the CleanWeb!
It sweeps ads, malware, and trackers off your devices, decluttering screen time and preventing minor irritants from snowballing into bigger issues, like data theft and fraud.
Combined with Surfshark’s browser extension (which throws cookie blocker into the bargain), you can make surfing the web a less perilous and more enjoyable experience.
Available on all Surfshark plans
MultiHop VPN
Also known as Double VPN, this feature routes your web traffic through a second server to ensure all transmitted data packets get that extra padlock of protection.
That’s bad news for hackers, left to fumble with two decryption keys if they want to pry open your private browsing history.
Typically, VPNs offer a limited number of pairings. Surfshark’s MultiHop, however, gives you the freedom to hop, skip, and jump between pretty much any two of its 4,500+ networked servers.
Available on all Surfshark plans
NoBorders
Surfshark has multiple tools for maintaining free access to the internet. Its NoBorders tech leaps into action when it detects network restrictions: automatically providing you with a list of servers to use to overcome such obstacles.
And Surfshark’s obfuscating 'Camouflage Mode' – a modified version of OpenVPN – will cloak your connection as regular HTTPS, in case you encounter any domains that deny access to VPN traffic.
Available on all Surfshark plans
Rotating IP
Surfshark is one of the few VPN providers to boast an IP rotation feature, made possible thanks to its joined-up Nexus network technology.
That means your IP address updates at regular intervals, without disrupting your VPN connection. Considering a fixed IP allows trackers to identify your browsing habits, it’s a useful tool for privacy enthusiasts.
Another benefit? A constantly updating IP also reduces your chances of being targeted by Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attacks.
Available on all Surfshark plans
Surfshark Search
You'll find Surfshark Search under the Products tab of the provider's Android app. It's the company’s proprietary search engine that expunges ads and trackers to provide what it calls “the real Incognito mode.”
And the results it returns? Ad-free, unbiased, totally anonymous, and unaffected by your IP address, location, or any former browsing habits.
You can pick from a list of about 40 countries, enter your query, and get results relevant to that location. It’s a simple way to secure the best deals across regions and avoid the market manipulations of dynamic pricing.
Available with Surfshark Starter Plus and above
Surfshark Antivirus
Raise the drawbridge against digital nasties with Surfshark’s AV Test-certified Antivirus, available to use on up to five devices.
Schedule regular scans to detect any viruses or malware attempting to scale your device’s defenses, and be warned should any online creeps try to access your webcam.
Plus, unlike most VPNS, you’ll get real-time protection too, assessing every new download for threats.
Available with Surfshark One and Surfshark One+ plans
What version of Android do I need to get the Surfshark mobile app?
As of early 2026, the earliest Android operating system compatible with the Surfshark mobile app is Android 6.0 (Marshmallow), with support provided all the way up to Android 16.0 (Baklava).
While you can still access Surfshark with earlier OS, Surfshark recommends upgrading to at least 6.0 to ensure you get the latest security patches, bug fixes, and feature updates, and so continue to enjoy optimum functionality and protection.
How to install the Surfshark Android app
Once you've signed up for Surfshark (if you're not already a subscriber, of course), follow these simple steps to install the Surfshark app on your Android devices:
- Open the Google Play Store and enter 'Surfshark' in the search bar
- Click the blue Install button. The Surfshark app will start downloading
- Open the Surfshark app
- Log in if you have an account. If not, select Create Account and pick your subscription plan
- That’s it. Now simply connect to a server to secure your internet connection!
Alternatively, you can opt to download the app from Surfshark’s own website:
- Access this Surfshark webpage in your browser
- Click the Download APK option
- When prompted, select Open then Install
- Log in and say hello to Surfshark!
