Google And Apple Strengthen Device Security With New Anti-Theft Measures

In a move aimed at improving security, Google and Apple have stepped up their efforts to combat device theft with new and innovative features.

While Google has introduced advanced anti-theft protections for Android, Apple is focusing on internal security measures for iPhones with the upcoming iOS 18 release.

Let's explore these key announcements!
 

What Did Google Unveil?

 

• Google recently introduced three advanced anti-theft features for Android devices, namely a Theft Detection Lock, Offline Device Lock and an improved Remote Lock.

• The Theft Detection Lock uses AI and device sensors to identify theft-related movements, such as sudden snatching. It then locks the phone immediately, denying access to all apps and data.

• Offline Device Lock automatically locks the phone if it remains offline for an extended period, providing security even when the device is disconnected from the internet.

• Google also updated the Remote Lock feature, which allows users to lock their phones remotely using a phone number, particularly useful when the Find My Device service is disabled.

 

• These new features are rolling out later this year through updates to Google Play Services and will be available on Android 10+ devices, with some features integrated into Android 15.

• Additionally, Google has enhanced factory reset protection, preventing thieves from resetting stolen devices without the correct credentials, rendering stolen phones unsellable.

• A new feature called Private Space is also being introduced, allowing users to lock sensitive apps behind a separate PIN, further securing personal data.

 

What Did Apple Announce For iOS 18?

 

• Apple has introduced a new security feature called Internal Component Lock, which will be available in iOS 18, aiming to reduce the resale value of stolen iPhones by protecting internal hardware components.

• The new lock binds key internal components to the device’s unique serial number, making unauthorized third-party repairs more challenging and restricting the use of counterfeit or unofficial parts.

• Unauthorized repair attempts will trigger restricted functionalities or disable certain features until genuine components are reinstalled, preventing thieves from breaking the devices down for parts.

 

• This feature is automatically enabled, ensuring that any repair attempt outside authorized Apple service centers will be detected. This makes it harder for stolen iPhones to be disassembled and sold.

• Apple's move aligns with its emphasis on user privacy and security, reinforcing its reputation for providing a secure ecosystem.

 

What Does It Mean For Consumers?

 

• Google and Apple's new anti-theft initiatives reflect a growing trend toward incorporating advanced security features directly into their respective ecosystems.

• By leveraging AI for theft detection and integrating security locks on hardware, both companies aim to make their devices less attractive targets for theft while providing consumers with enhanced features to protect their personal data.

• These updates are part of a broader push by tech giants to innovate and provide better security to users in a rapidly evolving mobile environment.

Do you think these new security measures will effectively reduce device theft? Or will thieves find new loopholes to exploit?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!