Your Android phone is getting an AI-powered update to protect your personal information from theft.
Earlier this year, in May, Google introduced a new feature for Android phones called Theft Detection Lock. Expected to launch with Android 15, the feature will detect when someone takes your phone and quickly walks away (whether by running, cycling, or driving) and then automatically lock the screen.
According to Android journalist Mishaal Rahman, Anti-Theft Lock is finally rolling out.
How Does a Theft Detection Lock Work?
Google explains that this tool uses AI to track your phone’s gyroscope and accelerometer, which are sensors that track your phone’s movements. The AI looks for “common movements associated with theft,” but Google didn’t provide specific details on what those movements are. However, it’s likely that a sudden movement is followed by a rapid acceleration. When these movements are detected, the phone will immediately lock the screen.
Android Anti-Theft Feature First Release
For now, the feature is available to a limited number of users in Brazil who have 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 later, which covers most modern Android phones.
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Additional Security Features
Theft Detection Lock is just one part of a series of security enhancements that 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 has introduced:
Factory Reset Protection: It will be harder to factory reset your phone and set it up under a new account, making it harder for thieves to delete your data.
Special Areas: You can hide your sensitive applications in safe and private areas on your phone.
Lost Mode in Find My Device:You will be able to mark your phone as lost, this will make tracking it easier.
Automatic LockIf someone tries to unlock your phone too many times and fails, your phone will automatically be locked.
Offline Lock:You can lock your phone remotely even if it is offline.
Remote Lock:You can lock your phone from anywhere using just your number and a quick security query.
Usability
These new security tools, including Anti-Theft Lock, will be available via a Google Play services update later this year. Some features will be available to everyone, while others will be exclusive to Android 15.
In summary, Google is taking significant steps to improve the security of Android phones. Anti-Theft Lock and other new tools will make it much harder for thieves to access your personal information, and will give you more peace of mind if your phone is lost or stolen.