Your Android phone is about to get an AI-powered update to protect your personal information from theft.
Earlier this year, in May, Google introduced a new feature called Theft Detection Lock for Android phones. This feature, which is expected to launch with Android 15, will detect when someone grabs your phone and quickly walk away, whether running, cycling or driving, and then automatically lock the screen.
According to Android journalist Mishaal Rahman, theft detection blocking is finally coming.
How does the theft detection lock work?
Google explains that this tool uses artificial intelligence to monitor the phone’s gyroscope and accelerometer, which are sensors that track movement. The AI looks for “common movements associated with theft,” though Google hasn’t provided specific details on what those movements are. However, it’s likely to involve a sudden movement followed by rapid acceleration. Once these movements are detected, the phone will immediately lock the screen.
Android Anti-Theft Feature Initial Release
For now, the feature is rolling out to a limited number of users in Brazil who signed up for Google’s beta program. Once the feature is fully rolled out, it will likely start with newer Google phones and eventually become available on all Android devices running Android 10 or higher, which covers most modern Android phones.
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Additional safety features
Theft Detection Lock is just one part of a series of security improvements Google announced earlier this year. These features are designed to protect your data “before, during, and after a theft.” Here are some of the other security tools Google is rolling out:
Factory Reset ProtectionIt will be harder to factory reset your phone and set it up with a new account, making it harder for thieves to erase your data.
Private spaces:You can hide sensitive apps in safe and private spaces on your phone.
Lost Mode in Find My Device:You will be able to mark your phone as lost, which will make it easier to track.
Automatic lock:If someone tries to unlock your phone too many times and fails, it will be automatically locked.
Offline lock:Even if your phone is offline, you can lock it remotely.
Remote lock:You can lock your phone from anywhere using just your number and a quick security challenge.
Availability
These new security tools, including theft detection lock, will be available later this year through an update to Google Play services. While some features will be available to everyone, others will be exclusive to Android 15.
In short, Google is taking major steps to improve the security of Android phones. Theft Detection Lock and other new tools will make it much harder for thieves to access your personal information, giving you greater peace of mind if your phone is ever lost or stolen.