Another useful feature, Offline Device Lock, will lock the screen if the phone remains disconnected from the internet for a long period
Google is introducing a set of new security features for Android devices aimed at protecting users if their phone is stolen or snatched. First announced in May, these features—Theft Detection Lock, Offline Device Lock, and Remote Lock—are designed to detect if someone grabs your phone and attempts to flee, whether on foot, by bike, or by car.
If the system’s AI determines that the phone has been snatched, the Theft Detection Lock will automatically lock the device, preventing the thief from accessing apps and personal data. This could be especially useful in situations where criminals try to quickly steal the phone and make off with sensitive information.
Another useful feature, Offline Device Lock, will lock the screen if the phone remains disconnected from the internet for a long period. This helps counteract attempts by thieves to disable Wi-Fi or mobile data to avoid being tracked. Meanwhile, Remote Lock lets users lock their stolen phone using only their mobile number, even if they can’t access Google’s “Find My Device” service. This feature is handy if someone needs to lock their phone to prevent unauthorized access, especially in situations where the stolen device could bypass two-factor authentication for email or other important accounts.
Independent Android expert Mishaal Rahman confirmed on Threads that these features are now rolling out in beta. Rahman first noticed them on his Xiaomi 14T Pro and mentioned that they’ve been tested in Brazil since August. A broader release is expected later this year.
It’s not just physical theft that Android users need to guard against. Cybercriminals are constantly developing new ways to compromise smartphones and steal sensitive information, particularly through mobile banking apps. In August, cybersecurity firm ESET uncovered new malware targeting Android phones that could intercept payment data from nearby devices using near-field communication (NFC).
These new features aim to give users greater control over their security, offering multiple layers of protection against both physical theft and evolving cyber threats.