Google steps up with 3 new Android anti-theft features to rival iPhone

For years, iPhone users have boasted about their devices' superior data protection, with Apple's tracking feature often seen as the gold standard in theft security. Meanwhile, Google’s Android has lagged behind in this area—until now.

In a bid to close the gap, Google has been working to change that perception, and earlier at this year’s Google I/O event, it announced a set of new security features aimed at enhancing data protection for Android users, particularly in the event of device theft.

These features, known as Theft Detection Lock, Offline Device Lock, and Remote Lock, were initially expected to roll out with the public release of Android 15, but some users in the U.S. have already begun seeing them after a limited test run in Brazil.

Each of these security tools is expected to offer a unique protection against theft and unauthorized access for the nearly 4 billion Android users globally according to Bank My Cell.

Theft Detection Lock is perhaps the most innovative of the three features. By using advanced AI and machine learning models, it can determine if a phone has been stolen—whether it’s snatched while walking, cycling, or even driving. If the device detects a motion pattern commonly associated with theft, it automatically locks the screen to prevent quick access to your data. This feature uses the phone’s onboard sensors and connectivity channels to identify suspicious behaviour and act swiftly to protect personal information.

Another one, Offline Device Lock addresses a common tactic used by thieves of cutting off the phone’s connection to the internet to prevent tracking. With this feature, if a phone remains offline for an extended period or if someone tries multiple attempts to unlock the device, it will automatically lock itself. This ensures that even if a thief attempts to keep the phone disconnected or tries to bypass security measures, they’ll be blocked from accessing sensitive data.

Lastly, in cases where theft detection hasn’t been enabled or the phone is already offline, Google’s Remote Lock feature provides a final layer of defence. Users can visit the Android Find My Device page and remotely lock their device as long as they know the associated phone number. Once the device goes online, the lock will immediately activate, restricting access until the rightful owner can recover it.

With these updates, Android is making meaningful progress in strengthening its security and inching closer to the levels of protection iPhone users have long enjoyed.

However, it's clear that Apple Apple’s security features still maintain an edge. For instance, Apple's Find My network allows iPhones to be tracked even when they’re offline, leveraging an encrypted, anonymous network of nearby Apple devices to send location data back to the user.

Google's recent addition on the other hand, still relies on the device being connected to the internet, which leaves a potential window of vulnerability.

According to reports, the three feature are set be available on all Android devices running Android 10 or later. The rollout is being delivered via Play services, allowing for a faster and broader release to users.