Google is reportedly pushing a feature update to some Android phones, adding anti-theft functionalities like Theft Detection Lock, Offline Device Lock, and Remote Lock. The latter is not exactly new and many Android users already have it. However, the Theft Detection Lock and Offline Device Lock are brand new functionalities announced in May that increase data security.
Anti-theft features
The theft detection lock is the fanciest of them all. It uses AI and the device’s sensors to detect common movements associated with theft. For example, if someone pulls the phone out of your hand and starts running. It can also detect movements related to a bicycle or car. The phone automatically locks and blocks all access to your apps and data.
On the other hand, Offline Device Lock locks your device when the thief tries to keep your phone loose for extended periods.
As for Remote Lock, you can only lock your phone remotely by using your phone number in case Find My Device is disabled or you can’t log into your Google account to do it yourself.
It’s still unclear which phones Google is putting the new features on, but you might want to check that you have the latest version of Google Play Services.