Google is rolling out three new theft protection features that it announced earlier this year for Android. These features are Theft Detection Lock, Offline Device Lock, and Remote Lock, all of which are designed to allow users to quickly lock down their devices so that thieves can’t access any sensitive information.
Initially introduced as part of Google’s beta test launch in Brazil, these safeguards are now making their way to more regions. Android reporter Mishaal Rahman shared on X that the Theft Detection Lock and Offline Device Lock features had popped up on his Xiaomi 14T Pro, along with some Google Pixel users also started seeing the Remote Lock feature starting to appear on their device.
These three features actually appear to be rolling out globally, judging by all the replies I've received! https://t.co/IAj8NLcST0
— Mishaal Rahman (@MishaalRahman) October 5, 2024
Theft Detection Lock uses Google AI and machine learning models to detect common motion associated with theft, or the literal act of snatching something. It will lock the phone automatically as it picks up jerky movements, rendering it useless to whoever snatches it.
Offline Device Lock automatically locks the phone’s screen after a thief has disconnected the phone from the internet. This is if a thief tries to disconnect your phone for prolonged periods to bypass security by cutting off network access. Remote Lock lets you brick the phone entirely from anywhere. Just head to android.com/lock, enter the phone number, and answer a security question to remotely lock the screen.
To determine if your Android phone has early access to these theft protection features, search for “theft protection” in your settings app or go to Settings > Google > Personal & device safety. Some users may only see one or two of the three locks enabled as the rollout is still slowly integrating into devices.
(Source: Google, TechSpot, 9to5Google)
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