Proton Duo is a new plan from Proton that simplifies online privacy for two people. This plan offers a compelling solution for couples or families who want to secure their digital lives without compromising convenience.
Proton Duo addresses the challenge of protecting both your online privacy and that of your loved ones. It provides a suite of privacy-focused tools as an alternative to Big Tech companies that often exploit user data.
In this blog post, we will discuss what Proton Duo is, its key features, and how to get started with it.
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What is Proton Duo?
Proton, a company known for its focus on online privacy, has launched a new plan called Proton Duo. This plan offers a suite of privacy-focused services, including encrypted email, calendar, cloud storage, password manager, and VPN, designed for two users.
The plan includes 1 TB of storage and all the features of Proton Unlimited, with the added benefit of shared access to certain features like a custom email domain and shared Proton Calendar.
Proton Duo aims to make it easier for couples or families to protect their data from Big Tech companies by providing a comprehensive and affordable privacy solution.
Proton claims that Proton Duo is a privacy-focused alternative to Big Tech services, using end-to-end and zero-access encryption. Meaning - No one, not even Proton, can access the user's or their partner's information without explicit permission.
Here's what's included with Proton Duo:
- Up to 2 Users
- 1 TB of Storage Space (with an additional 15 GB every year)
- All Features of Proton Unlimited
- Full Access to:
- Proton Mail
- Proton Drive
- Proton Calendar
- Proton Pass
- Proton VPN
Features
Launched on August 13, 2024, Proton Duo offers a wide range of features:
- Proton Duo is a new plan designed for two people, offering online privacy with 1 TB of storage space. It includes encrypted email addresses, calendar, secure storage, and a VPN.
- Proton Duo offers a forever discount price of $14.99/month with a one-year plan, saving $60 annually compared to two Proton Unlimited subscriptions.
- The plan includes full access to Proton Mail, Proton Drive, Proton Calendar, Proton Pass, and Proton VPN.
- Proton Duo allows separate login information, enabling users to maintain individual privacy while sharing specific content with their partner or family member.
- Users can share a custom email domain for a more personal family identity in Proton Mail.
- Proton Duo provides 1 TB of end-to-end encrypted storage for backing up files and photos, accessible from any device through Proton Drive.
- A shared Proton Calendar helps users track schedules and plan events and vacations.
- A shared Proton Pass vault allows storing and managing login details for shared online accounts and subscriptions.
- Proton Drive's Docs feature allows real-time collaboration on documents.
- Proton VPN enables users to change their IP addresses and locations, enhancing online privacy and security.
- The Proton Sentinel account protection programme and Dark Web Monitoring protect against account takeover attacks and data breaches.
- Users can upgrade to the Proton Family plan for additional storage and data protection for other family members.
The Motivation Behind Proton Duo
Proton introduced the Proton Duo plan to address the challenge of shared online privacy among couples and families. Even if one person takes measures to protect their data, their loved ones might still be vulnerable if they use services that exploit user information. For example, family members using services like Google for email, storage, or photos could be unknowingly exposing sensitive data.
Proton team recognised a need to make online privacy easier for two people, leading to the creation of Proton Duo. This plan aims to provide a comprehensive privacy solution for couples by offering a range of features designed for shared use. Proton Duo is positioned as a way to "ditch Big Tech together" and ensure that both individuals have control over their digital lives.
Additionally, Proton emphasizes that its business model prioritises user privacy. Unlike free services that profit from user data, Proton's paid plans ensure that their only incentive is to keep user information secure.
Why Choose Proton Duo?
Proton Duo offers several key benefits:
- Shared Privacy: Addresses the vulnerability of one partner's online activities potentially exposing shared information.
- Value for Money: Offers substantial savings compared to two separate Proton Unlimited subscriptions.
- Ease of Use: Proton apps use end-to-end and zero-access encryption, meaning no one, not even Proton, can access user data without permission.
- Unique Features: Includes a custom email domain for a shared family identity, encrypted backups for files and photos, shared calendar and password management, collaborative document editing, and VPN protection.
How Does Proton Duo Work?
Proton Duo provides separate login information for each user, giving individuals control over their data and what they choose to share. The plan also includes access to Proton's Easy Switch tool, which simplifies the process of migrating existing emails, calendars, and contacts from other providers like Gmail.
Getting Started with Proton Duo
This offer is available for a limited time, so I encourage users to take advantage of it before it's gone.
- Sign up for Proton Duo or upgrade an existing plan.
- If your partner is new to Proton, have them create a free account.
- Invite them to join your Duo plan.
Proton's Commitment to Privacy
Proton emphasizes its commitment to privacy through end-to-end and zero-access encryption, ensuring that user data remains inaccessible, even to Proton itself. Beyond Proton Duo, the company offers other products and initiatives, like the Proton Foundation, reflecting its dedication to a more privacy-conscious internet.
The recent transition to a non-profit structure with the launch of the Proton Foundation further solidifies this commitment. Choosing Proton Duo not only secures your digital environment but also supports the development of a privacy-focused internet.
