Google releases AI anti-theft feature on Android smartphones

Previously, at the Google I/O Conference held in May 2024, Google announced three new artificial intelligence (AI) features for Android devices, aiming to enhance data security in case of smartphone loss or theft. Google has now started releasing these features to users.

Google launches 3 new AI anti-theft features for Android smartphones

Lock when detecting theft : This AI feature will automatically detect when the phone is snatched and the thief is running away, thereby automatically locking and encrypting data to prevent unauthorized access.

Offline Device Lock : This feature automatically encrypts the device to protect user data when the thief intentionally does not connect the smartphone to the internet.

Remote Lock : This feature allows users to remotely lock and encrypt stolen smartphone data via phone number, without having to access "Find My Device" on Google account.

According to security firm ESET, thieves will often try to hack and steal data from lost smartphones. Once infiltrated, they can steal personal data or access the victim's bank account.

Google hopes that these new AI features will discourage thieves from trying to steal smartphones, because stolen phones will have their data encrypted and prevented from being stolen or hacked.

Currently, Google is releasing new AI anti-theft features to a limited number of users before rolling them out globally. Smartphones running Android 10 or higher will support these AI features.