AI-Powered Theft Detection Lock, Offline Device Lock, Remote Lock Coming To Protect Stolen Android Phones

In a bid to strengthen security of Android devices, Google is rolling out three new anti-theft features, in a significant advancement in smartphone protection against theft and unauthorised access. Google has announced it has begun deploying three key security measures for Android smartphones: Theft Detection Lock, Offline Device Lock, and Remote Lock. 

These new features are aimed at protecting users' devices and personal data in various theft scenarios. Google is expected to complete the global rollout by year-end, making these security enhancements accessible to Android users worldwide.

AI-Powered Theft Detection Lock

Theft Detection Lock, powered by artificial intelligence (AI), automatically secures the device when it detects suspicious movements, such as sudden snatching. This immediate response system aims to prevent thieves from accessing personal data in quick-grab situations.

Offline Device Lock

The Offline Device Lock feature activates when a device loses Internet connectivity for an extended period, addressing a common tactic where thieves disable network connections to avoid tracking.

Remote Lock

For users who can't access Google's Find My Device service, Remote Lock offers an alternative security measure, allowing device locking using just a phone number.

Notably, Theft Detection Lock and Offline Device Lock need Android 10 and newer versions, and Remote Lock will work with Android 5 and above versions.

While the rollout is gradual, users can attempt to access these features by updating their Google Play Services. According to tech enthusiast Mishaal Rahman, he is seeing these features on his Xiaomi 14T Pro, though availability currently varies by region and device.