Google is releasing a new set of features aimed at making it more difficult for thieves to access the data of the owner of a stolen Android smartphone. In total, there will be 3 security features, which is traditional for Google, and they are being rolled out gradually to small groups of users. The Verge writes about this with reference to the data miner @MishaalRahman.
The most interesting feature is the theft-detection lock. It uses artificial intelligence to lock the screen when it detects an atypical movement of the smartphone, which could be theft.
These three features actually appear to be rolling out globally, judging by all the replies I've received! https://t.co/IAj8NLcST0
These three features actually appear to be rolling out globally, judging by all the replies I've received! https://t.co/IAj8NLcST0
— Mishaal Rahman (@MishaalRahman) October 5, 2024For example, if an attacker decides to snatch an unlocked smartphone from the owner's hands, it will lock. After that, the device cannot be reset to factory settings, and even after a forced reset, it will still require authentication to a Google account.
Another feature, Offline Device Lock, locks the device if it is turned off for a long time. And Remote Lock allows users to lock their smartphone by phone number if they can't log in to Find My Device with a password.
Theft Detection Lock and Offline Device Lock are supported on any device running Android 10 or higher, while Remote Lock requires at least Android 5.