In addition to the new features that are coming with Android 15, Google also announced a host of new theft protection features coming to many Android phones and tablets, and without updating to the next major OS. Now, Google is starting to roll out the two security features.
New Anti-Theft features on Android
As confirmed by Google (via SamMobile), it plans to release Theft Detection Lock and Offline Device Lock first to users in Brazil by next month. The features will come as beta and users can be notified by signing up in Google’s Brazil Android website.
Theft Detection Lock is described by Google as a safeguard and deterrence for snatched Android devices. The tool uses Google AI to detect device movements associated to theft. Once determined as stolen, anti-theft measures will be activated like locking your phone’s screen and subsequently requiring biometrics or PIN to unlock the device.
Meanwhile, Offline Device Lock works remotely by locking your phone’s screen if a thief tries to disconnect it from a cellular network or Wi-Fi. It will also use algorithms like failed PIN and biometrics inputs and then automatically locking your device and data.
With both two security features enabled, it might prevent the rise in number of phone thefts in Brazil and other regions. Google says these enhancements are compatible with devices running on Android 10+ and are coming through a Google Play service update.
Android’s version of Stolen Device Protection
Apart from Theft Detection Lock and Offline Device Lock, new authentication features are planned to arrive in select devices through Android 15. These include an upgrade to Android factory reset which will require the existing Google account and password before they can fully reset your device.
Google is also making it difficult for thieves to apply changes into your credentials even if your PIN code is compromised. As explained, extra biometric authentication will be required if they try to tweak your sensitive settings like passwords, turning off Find My Device, or accessing passkeys, which is similar to how Apple’s Stolen Device Protection works.
Another feature that is coming to Android 15 is Private Space. As the name implies, it will add a dedicated container in your apps screen where you can lock away sensitive apps, with notifications and data being hidden from the system as well. Accessing them will require a security lock or biometric authentication.
Do you think these new Android security features will help discourage thieves to steal your device? Let’s discuss your answers in the comments.
Via: SamMobile
Source:
Google Brazil
