Google has announced a new security feature to increase digital account security on Android devices. This feature, called Identity Check, is presented with Android 15, especially for Pixel devices and aims to protect users’ digital accounts. This innovation makes it difficult for phone thieves to access device settings or precision information. Identity for authentication requires biometric verification for access to specific account and device settings when it is in an unreliable position (eg outside the home or workplace).
In Google’s official blog post, the risks that may arise if the devices get into the wrong hands were emphasized: “A stolen device may cause serious threats such as identity theft, financial fraud and confidentiality violations.” This explanation once again reveals why the security of mobile devices is so critical.
Apple launched a similar feature last year. This vehicle, called Stolen Device Protection, was developed against thieves who followed the phone passwords and stolen the devices. Google’s new authentication feature aims to keep Android users more secure for the same purpose.
Google shared details about the situations of authentication feature. Among the procedures that this feature protects:
- Change the PIN code of the device,
- Disabling the theft protection feature,
- Closing Find My Device (Find My Device) feature,
- Start the reset for factory settings,
- Change biometric data.
All these operations will be protected by biometric verification if the location of the device is not described as reliable. This will greatly prevent thieves from seizing the device and making unauthorized changes.
The authentication feature was first tested on pixel devices in December 2022 with a beta version. This innovation, which is offered to users within the scope of the Pixel Drop update, received positive feedback in terms of security and is now officially opened to all Pixel devices users.
The authentication feature is not only limited to pixel devices. Google, this feature in the coming weeks will be available on Samsung Galaxy devices announced. Compatible with Samsung’s One UI 7 interface, devices will be able to benefit from this new security vehicle. It is also planned to activate this feature on Android devices of other manufacturers by the end of the year.
Google responds directly to Android users’ digital security concerns
Google’s move is a direct response to users’ digital security concerns. In case of telephone theft, risks such as disclosure of personal information or loss of access to accounts were an important problem for Android users. Authorization offers an effective solution to prevent such situations.
This innovation increases safety with biometric verification and enables users to manage both their devices and digital accounts more safely. Particularly considering that mobile devices have more personal data every day, such safety features are critical to meet modern user needs.
Google’s new authentication feature seems to be able to strengthen the safety of Android users and reshape safety standards throughout the industry by taking device security to the next level.