Key Highlights
- Google is introducing new theft protection features for Android devices
- These features help lock your phone automatically if it’s stolen
- Currently the features are in beta
Losing your phone to theft can be terrifying, not only because of your hard-earned device but also the valuable data it contains. From personal accounts to sensitive financial details, securing this information becomes critical. To help protect users, Google is now rolling out new theft protection features for Android phones running version 10 and above.
Also Read | Android Tips And Tricks: How To Create Your Selfie GIF And Send Via Google Messages
Key Features To Protect Your Data
With its new theft protection features, Google hopes to preserve your data even in the event that your phone is taken. Here are the main features they have introduced:
Theft Detection Lock
- Automatically locks your phone if it detects sudden movement, like someone grabbing your device while it is unlocked
- Uses sensors, Wi-Fi, and smart device connections to sense when the phone is being snatched
- Works through machine learning. It recognizes if someone tries to run away on foot, bike, or car with your phone
Offline Device Lock
- Activates if a thief tries to turn off the internet on your phone in order to stop tracking
- If the device is being used when it is stolen, it locks the screen twice a day
- It’s an added protection, especially when the phone is not connected to the internet
Remote Lock
- You can visit android.com/lock from a smartphone owned by someone you can trust if yours is stolen
- This allows you to remotely lock your phone by entering a phone number and passing a security check
- Google says this process is faster than using the ‘Find My Device’ feature
How To Access These Features
- Users can turn on these features by searching for ‘Theft protection’ in the Settings app
- Alternatively, they can find it under the Google services page by selecting Personal & Device Safety.
Also Read | Android Tips And Tricks: Here’s How To Make Your Smartphone More Useful
Availability And Rollout
These features are currently in beta testing, starting in Brazil. While some users claim to have Remote Lock, others claim to have access to Theft Detection Lock and Offline Device Lock. All features are available to U.S. Pixel users on the Google Play Services beta (version 24.40.33). However, a full rollout is expected later this year across more regions.
For the tech geeks, stay updated with the latest cutting-edge gadgets in the market, exclusive tech updates, gadget reviews, and more right on your phone’s screen. Join Giznext’s WhatsApp channel and receive the industry-first tech updates.
