Good news for Android users! Google is rolling out new AI-powered theft protection for your smartphones, making it harder for thieves to mess with your device. According to their latest blog post, these upgrades will boost your phone’s security and give thieves a run for their money. If your phone gets snatched, Android will soon be able to detect suspicious activities and automatically safeguard your data.
- Google Activates Worldwide Find My Device Network for Android
- Google Find My Device Now Works Offline
Improved Device and Data Protection
Factory Reset Protection: Stops thieves from wiping your phone. If someone tries to reset your stolen phone, they won’t be able to set it up again without your Google account details, making the phone useless for resale.
Private Space: Protects your sensitive apps. This feature allows you to create a hidden, locked area on your phone for apps with important information, like health or financial data.
Extra Security for Settings: Changing important settings like disabling Find My Device or extending screen timeout now requires your PIN, password, or biometric authentication. This adds another layer of protection if your phone is stolen.
Enhanced Authentication: If a thief knows your PIN, they still can’t access critical Google account and device settings without biometrics. This includes changing your PIN, turning off theft protection, or accessing Passkeys.
Availability: Factory reset protection updates and private space will be part of Android 15. Enhanced authentication protections will come to select devices later this year.
Automatic Theft Protection
Theft Detection Lock: Uses AI to detect if someone snatches your phone and tries to run, bike, or drive away. If these motions are detected, your phone screen locks instantly, making it harder for thieves to access your information.
Offline Device Lock: Locks your screen if someone tries to keep your phone disconnected for a long time, protecting your data even when the phone is offline. It also locks the screen after multiple failed authentication attempts.
Availability: Theft Protection Lock and Offline Device Lock will be available for Android 10+ devices through a Google Play services update later this year.
Lock Your Device
Find My Device: Already allows you to remotely lock or wipe a lost or stolen phone. Now, you can mark it as lost for easier tracking.
Remote Lock: If your phone is gone, you can lock its screen using just your phone number and a quick security challenge from any device. This gives you time to recover your account details and use Find My Device for options like a full factory reset.
Availability: Remote Lock will be available for Android 10+ devices through a Google Play services update later this year. Find My Device is available on Android 5+ devices.
Isn’t it great to have these new safety features?