Smartphones with the Android operating system will soon become unstealable.
In an effort to deter thieves, Google is introducing a new feature with Android 15 that can lock a stolen phone automatically. This function uses the device's sensors to detect when a phone is snatched or taken without consent, making it impossible for the thief to use the phone.
Even before the introduction of this new feature, it was difficult to steal an iPhone or Android smartphone due to the PIN lock and the requirement of account information to reset the device to factory settings. However, Google is taking it a step further with Android 15 by incorporating an AI function that recognizes theft-related movements.
The AI function will monitor usage patterns and recognize actions like snatching the phone from the hand or pocket, followed by a run or a drive away. If such movements are detected, the phone's screen will be locked immediately.
Additional security measures
The new feature doesn't mean you can't use "Find my device" anymore. You can still find the phone, lock it, or delete all data from it. The loss of internet connection won't help thieves either, as there's now an offline option to lock the device.
To save time in emergencies, Google is also introducing "Remote lock." With just a phone number and a short security question, you can remotely lock the lost phone. This should give you enough time to recover your account details and access other features like the factory reset command to wipe the device completely.
Initially, the new anti-theft functions will be available with Android 15, but devices with Android 10 and above, which were released in 2019, will receive updates throughout the year.
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Owing to this advancement, Google-powered Android smartphones will become less attractive targets for thieves.With the release of Android 15, Google will equip these smartphones with an AI-driven feature, capable of recognizing theft-related movements and automatically locking the device.
Source: www.ntv.de
