Android’s New Feature: Screen Lock for Stolen Phones

Google is introducing a new set of security features designed to enhance protection against data theft. Mishaal Rahman revealed on Reddit that these features are starting to appear in a recent update, citing his Xiaomi 14T Pro phone now having Theft Detection Lock and Offline Device Lock, two out of the three features Google announced back in May. Some users have reported only seeing the third feature, Remote Lock.

The New Security Features

The most prominent among the new features is Theft Detection Lock, which leverages AI to lock the screen when it detects suspicious movements associated with theft, such as someone forcefully taking the phone. Offline Device Lock, on the other hand, activates when a device has been offline for a period, while Remote Lock allows users to secure their phone using only their phone number if they can’t access Find My Device.

Availability and Compatibility

These new features are supported on any Android device running Android 10 or higher, while Remote Lock can be used on devices with at least Android 5. If you haven’t received the update yet, consider updating Google Play Services, although Google typically rolls out new features gradually.

Testing the Features

As of now, some users have not yet seen these features on their Pixel 6 devices. For screenshots of the new features’ settings, check out Rahman’s post on Threads.

Conclusion

Enhancing security measures on Android devices is crucial in safeguarding personal data. Google’s latest features offer additional layers of protection, making it harder for thieves to access sensitive information.

FAQs

Q: Are these security features available on all Android devices?

A: These features are supported on Android devices running Android 10 and above. Remote Lock requires at least Android 5.

Q: How can I update my Google Play Services to access these new security features?

A: You can update Google Play Services through the Google Play Store. However, keep in mind that these features may be gradually rolled out, so you may need to wait for the update to reach your device.

Credit: www.theverge.com