Google plans to make Android phones more secure with a new feature that automatically restarts devices after three days without use. This update comes through Google Play services. After the restart, users must enter their password rather than using fingerprints or facial recognition to unlock their phones.
The security measure puts devices into a mode called "Before First Unlock" when they remain untouched for three full days. During this time, all data stays encrypted until the correct PIN, pattern, or password is entered. This helps protect information if phones are lost or stolen.
The update targets smartphones and tablets but won't affect Android TV, wearables, or Android Auto systems. Apple recently introduced a similar feature in iOS 18.1 called "Inactivity Reboot," which works after four days of inactivity. Both companies seem focused on adding stronger security measures to protect user information.
Google has not announced exactly when this feature will become available or which specific devices will receive it. The change represents another step in making mobile devices more secure against unauthorized access when phones sit idle for extended periods.
The security measure puts devices into a mode called "Before First Unlock" when they remain untouched for three full days. During this time, all data stays encrypted until the correct PIN, pattern, or password is entered. This helps protect information if phones are lost or stolen.
The update targets smartphones and tablets but won't affect Android TV, wearables, or Android Auto systems. Apple recently introduced a similar feature in iOS 18.1 called "Inactivity Reboot," which works after four days of inactivity. Both companies seem focused on adding stronger security measures to protect user information.
Google has not announced exactly when this feature will become available or which specific devices will receive it. The change represents another step in making mobile devices more secure against unauthorized access when phones sit idle for extended periods.
