What you need to know
- Google is reportedly rolling out some new features for Android called “Theft Detection.”
- This update includes Theft Detection Lock, an AI-powered lock screen that detects movement similar to someone snatching your device and running away.
- Offline lock allows users to remotely control their device if it is stolen. Offline lock also serves as a backup in case a thief cuts off your phone’s Wi-Fi or cellular signal for an extended period of time.
- Google previously teased these features during I/O 2024 with several more security measures on the way, including “Private Spaces” in Android 15.
Google has reportedly started rolling out some new security features for Android that were teased during I/O 2024.
A post on X by Mishaal Rahman says that Google has started introducing three new anti-theft features: Detection Lock, Offline Device Lock, and Remote Lock. The feature was originally spotted on the Xiaomi 14T Pro in the US, but additional reports by other users claim that Google has pushed the security enhancements globally.
In May, Google highlighted several features to protect user data and sensitive information on Android. The company has bundled new tools under the “Anti-Theft” banner, including an AI-powered screen lock known as “Detection Lock.” Google said during I/O 2024 that when you enable the feature, it will look for activity like someone snatching your device and running away.
When your phone detects this, it will lock itself for your protection.
Judging by all the replies I’ve received, it appears these three features are indeed being rolled out around the world. https://t.co/IAj8NLcST0October 5, 2024
The same goes for remote locks. However, this version allows users to lock their phones remotely (you guessed it). The initial announcement stated that a phone number was required to complete this and to complete the security challenge. Devices running Android 10 and above can take advantage of this feature.
Rounding out the update is an “offline lock.” If a malicious person takes your device offline (Wi-Fi, cellular data) for an extended period of time, they will no longer be able to access your phone. In addition, additional locking parameters are enabled after repeated unsuccessful attempts to guess the password. Devices running Android 10 or later are eligible for this feature.
In addition to the US, users are also noticing these features in India, Germany, and the EU. However, it’s worth noting that some users are not seeing all three features in different regions. This could be a sign of Google’s continued expansion.
The other side of that main security post from May was “Private Space”. This secluded area on your device works similar to a safe folder. Inbound in Android 15 allows users to set up a private space on their phone to hide apps containing sensitive information (like health or banking) behind a unique PIN. Google has said elsewhere that it is considering protecting one-time passwords.
The company hinted that it is working on enhancing Android’s anti-fraud features and expanding the software’s restrictive settings.
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