NAIROBI, Kenya- Google’s promise to amp up security on Android devices is finally here. Three new theft protection features — Theft Detection Lock, Offline Device Lock, and Remote Lock — are now rolling out, giving users more control in securing their phones if they’re stolen.
First announced earlier this year, these tools are designed to help users quickly lock down their devices and safeguard sensitive information in the event of theft.
One of the standout features, Theft Detection Lock, takes a proactive approach to security.
Using Google’s AI, this tool detects when a phone is literally snatched out of your hand. The feature can sense when a thief is trying to run, bike, or drive away with your phone.
Once it detects this “snatch-and-run” scenario, it immediately locks the phone’s screen, preventing unauthorized access.
This level of protection is especially helpful when you don’t have time to react. Imagine your phone is grabbed in a crowded area or while you’re distracted. Theft Detection Lock does the heavy lifting, ensuring the device locks itself instantly.
Next up is Offline Device Lock, which tackles another common issue. In many theft situations, the first thing a criminal does is disable the phone’s internet connection to avoid tracking or remote commands.
This new feature automatically locks your screen once the phone goes offline, ensuring that thieves can’t bypass security even without an internet connection.
While Google’s Find My Device already offers remote locking when a phone is connected, Offline Device Lock adds an extra layer of defense when your device goes dark.
The feature was first spotted on Xiaomi’s 14T Pro and could soon be available across more Android devices.
The third feature, Remote Lock, simplifies the process of securing your device. Unlike the traditional Find My Device, which requires logging into your Google account, Remote Lock lets you secure your phone using just your phone number and a quick security challenge.
This faster, easier method eliminates the need to scramble for your Google password when your phone is missing.
Some Pixel users have already reported seeing Remote Lock in action, and it’s likely to be more widely available soon.
The convenience of this tool is a game-changer for those stressful moments when you need to act fast.
With the rollout of these new theft protection features, Google is making it easier for users to keep their devices secure, even in the worst-case scenarios.
Whether it’s through the AI-driven Theft Detection Lock, the Offline Device Lock, or the streamlined Remote Lock, Android users now have more options to prevent unauthorized access and safeguard their personal information.
