Google is Developing a New Theft Detection Lock for Android; How Does it Operate?

The tech giant Google unveiled a new theft detection lock for Android phones at I/O 2024. This lock utilizes artificial intelligence to determine whether a phone has been taken. Google recently revealed that the first nation to test this functionality will be Brazil. Android phones include an anti-theft function that provides a method to lock the device in the event that it is stolen.

The goal of the new anti-theft feature is to safeguard user data kept on phones. Google claims that the new feature set will shield consumers before to, during, and following a theft. Because these situations are often stressful and unplanned, these features are intended to protect user data immediately in the event that they identify suspicious behavior.

How does Google's theft detection lock operate?

The feature will have three different sorts of locks during the initial testing phase, according to reports. Google will deploy artificial intelligence (AI) in one of these locks to identify patterns of movement linked to theft. Technology included into the feature will recognize these motions and block the screen.

By inputting the phone number and successfully completing a security challenge from a different device, the second function enables a user to remotely lock the device's screen. In the final setting, the screen will automatically lock if the device is not connected to the internet for an extended length of time.

According to the business, Brazilians who own Android phones version 10 or higher will be able to use the services from July forward. According to Google, people from other nations will be able to access them progressively this year.

A detailed look at Google's theft detection lock

The enhanced factory reset protection feature of the new theft detection lock makes it more difficult for criminals to reset stolen devices and resell them. This feature greatly reduces incentives for theft by rendering a stolen gadget unsellable without the owner's credentials.

The Private Space feature is an additional feature that is intended to prevent unauthorized access to critical apps and data. 

Users will be able to conceal and lock applications that hold private information, such financial or health records, by establishing a distinct, safe space on their phone, adding an additional degree of security against data breaches.

Google is also enforcing stringent verification requirements for making changes to sensitive device settings, such extending screen timeouts or turning off Find My Device. This update will protect user data and privacy by requiring the owner's PIN, password, or biometric verification before a thief can make any substantial alterations to a device.

Notably, Android 15 will include these security improvements, and later this year, certain devices will get stronger authentication security.