Lost or stolen? New Google feature makes it more difficult to access your data: all you need to know | Mint

Google introduces a new Android security feature that will automatically restart a smartphone if it stays closed for three consecutive days. The update, part of Google Play Services version 25.14, started rolling out on Monday and is designed to prevent unauthorized access to user data by putting the phone in a safe condition. If a device is not unlocked for 72 hours, it will be recharged automatically, and it is known as the leading first unlock (BFU). In this condition, all user data are encrypted, and biometric verification methods such as fingerprint or facial recognition are turned off. To access the device and decode its contents, the user must enter their password code. Once done, the device transitions to the NA -first unlock (AFU) condition. This additional layer of protection is intended to prevent sensitive information from falling into the wrong hands, especially in the case of theft or loss. As a recharge causes the BFU state, unauthorized users are blocked to access the content of the phone without the password. According to Google’s Changelog, the feature will be available for Android smartphones and is likely to be expanded to Android tablets. The company also said that the feature will be optional, which indicates that users have the ability to enable or disable it through device settings. This move is carefully following the implementation of Apple’s implementation of a similar function, known as Inactivity Reboot, which was introduced with iOS 18.1 in October 2024. Apple’s version also restarts the devices that are not yet access to 72 hours, which improves security by requiring a password code at recharge. Reports of iPhones seized by the authorities paid attention to the function shortly after its release. With this update, Google joins Apple to take proactive measures to improve mobile security. As smartphones become increasingly central to daily life, features such as automatic restart goal are to provide users greater control and confidence in the safety of their personal data. First published: 16 Apr 2025, 22:52 IST