AdGuard VPN for Android v2.16.2: Security level up and App exclusions for Android TV app

You wouldn’t believe the immense effort and endless cups of coffee our team poured into this release. But here it is — AdGuard VPN for Android v2.16.2 in all its glory! Packed with major security upgrades and the highly anticipated App exclusions for Android TV, it’s finally ready. Give it a warm welcome!

Improved app security

We’ve significantly strengthened security in two key areas. Integration mode with AdGuard Ad Blocker now uses an updated connection protocol with credential-based authentication, allowing the ad blocker and VPN to sync securely and automatically without any extra steps from the user, while preventing third-party apps from monitoring their interaction.

If you already use AdGuard VPN together with AdGuard Ad Blocker, make sure to update both apps to the latest versions — v2.16.2 and v4.13 respectively — so SOCKS5 and Integration mode continue to work properly.

Moreover, the local SOCKS5 proxy is now protected with authentication. Previously, some apps could detect an open proxy and connect to it without your knowledge, potentially exposing the proxy server’s IP address. To prevent this, we’ve introduced authentication for the proxy using a login and password, keeping your connection better protected.

App exclusions

Android TV users now have App exclusions, a highly requested feature. You can choose which apps the VPN applies to — either only selected apps or all apps except those in your exclusions list. This gives you more control over your network traffic and ensures a smoother experience on your TV.

Stability improvements

As part of this update, we’ve also fixed a number of bugs and made performance improvements. The app now runs more smoothly and feels more stable overall.

Let us hear you

As always, your feedback is what drives us forward. If you run into any bugs or have ideas for new features, please let us know by opening an issue on GitHub. And if you’re simply enjoying the new version, write a line or two on our social media channels.