Back in May, Google announced three theft protection features for Android, including Theft Detection Lock, Offline Device Lock, and Remote Lock. For several months now, the suite has been available in Brazil, but Google is now expanding its availability worldwide.
Experts first spotted the features on devices from brands like Xiaomi and Pixel owned by people in different countries. This shows Google quietly enabling the tools more widely. The features work in different ways to safeguard your phone if lost or stolen.
Theft Detection Lock uses sensors to know if your phone is taken, automatically locking the screen. Offline Device Lock does the same if someone tries to disconnect it for a long time. Both make the phone hard to access.
Remote Lock allows locking your device from any browser by visiting a special website and entering your phone number. This lets you secure your info even without having the phone.
While availability still varies per device and area, more people should now have these helpful theft protections. Getting them stolen is a worry for many, so these tools offer increased peace of mind. Keep an eye out to see if your Android gained Theft Detection Lock, Offline Device Lock or Remote Lock yet as the rollout continues globally.
