Smartphone theft is a growing threat due to the sensitive information they contain. In response, Google is introducing a series of features in Android to protect your devices and data before, during and after a theft attempt. These new features will be rolled out via Google Play services updates for devices running Android 10 and later, with some specific to Android 15.
In order to deter thieves before they act, Google will be offering several device security enhancements in Android 15. Firstly, an update to factory reset protection is planned to prevent a thief from resetting a stolen device. If a forced reset is attempted, the device will not be able to be reconfigured without the associated Google account credentials, making the device unusable for resale.
Next, the “Private Space” feature allows you to create a secure area in your phone, lockable with a separate PIN code that must be different from the code to unlock the device. This is designed to protect applications containing sensitive information such as financial or medical data. This separation reinforces the security of critical information in the event of theft.
In addition, further measures have been added to protect sensitive device settings. From now on, disabling “Find My Device” or changing the screen-off delay requires authentication by PIN code, password or biometrics. This measure is designed to prevent thieves from making the device “unlocatable” or unlocking it easily.
Finally, enhanced authentication requires the use of biometric data to access and modify crucial Google account and device settings, such as changing the PIN code or disabling theft protections. This feature will be available on selected devices later this year.
Automatic protection in the event of theft
When a device is stolen, it’s often difficult to react quickly. You’re often confused and sometimes even disorientated. Android therefore introduces features capable of automatically recognizing suspicious signals and proactively protecting data. The “Lock by theft detection” function uses Google’s AI to detect if the device is snatched from the user’s hands, and locks the screen instantly. This rapid reaction makes it harder for thieves to access data.
In addition, “Offline Device Lock” protects data even when the device is disconnected for long periods. This feature automatically locks the screen if the phone remains offline for too long, or if authentication attempts fail excessively, suggesting suspicious activity.
The good news is that these features, activated by a simple update to Google Play services, will be available for devices running Android 10 and later this year.
Quick action if your phone is stolen
In the event of loss or theft, the “Find My Device” feature already lets you remotely lock or wipe a phone. A new feature, dubbed “Remote Lock”, offers a quick option for securing the device even if you can’t remember your Google password. With just your phone number and a security challenge, you can lock your device’s screen from any other device, giving you a break to retrieve your account information and access other security options via “Find My Device”.
Here too, the “Remote Lock” function will be available for devices running Android 10 and later via an update to Google Play services this year. “Find My Device” remains available for devices running Android 5 and later.