Your Android phone is about to get an AI-powered upgrade 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, expected to launch with Android 15, will detect when someone grabs your phone and quickly moves away—whether by running, biking, or driving—and then automatically lock the screen.
According to Android journalist Mishaal Rahman, Theft Detection Lock is finally becoming available.
How Does Theft Detection Lock Work?
Google explains that this tool uses AI to monitor your phone’s gyroscope and accelerometer, which are sensors that track movement. The AI looks for “common motion associated with theft,” although Google hasn’t provided specific details on what those motions are. However, it likely involves a sudden movement followed by rapid acceleration. Once these motions are detected, the phone will immediately lock the screen.
Initial Rollout of Android Anti-Theft Feature
For now, the feature is being released to a limited number of users in Brazil who signed up for Google’s beta program. Once the feature is fully launched, it will likely start with newer Google phones and eventually be available on all Android devices running Android 10 or higher, 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 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 Protection: It will be harder to factory reset your phone and set it up under a new account, making it more difficult for thieves to wipe your data.
Private Spaces: You can hide sensitive apps in secure, private spaces on your phone.
Lost Mode on Find My Device: You’ll be able to mark your phone as lost, making it easier to track.
Automatic Lock: If someone tries and fails to unlock your phone too many times, it will automatically lock.
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 the Theft Detection Lock, will be made available later this year through a Google Play services update. While some features will be available to all, others will be exclusive to Android 15.
In summary, Google is taking significant steps to enhance the security of Android phones. The 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.
