Google is currently rolling out significant new features for Android theft protection and an updated charging screen for older Pixel Watch models, providing both Android phone users and smartwatch owners with advanced security and usability enhancements.

Android Theft Protection: Advanced Features for Device Security

Google is introducing a comprehensive set of theft protection features for Android devices to safeguard users’ data in the event of device theft. These features include Theft Detection, Offline Device Lock, and Remote Lock, all of which are now becoming widely available.

1. Accessing Theft Protection: You can access these new security tools through your phone’s Settings app. Navigate to Google > All services tab > Personal & device safety, or simply search for “theft” in the settings menu to find the relevant options quickly.
2. Theft Detection Lock: Theft Detection Lock activates when someone tries to steal your device while it’s in use. If your phone is grabbed and taken, the display turns off automatically, and the device will require authentication to regain access. This feature uses device sensors, Wi-Fi, and smart connections to detect theft and lock the device swiftly.
3. Offline Device Lock: If the thief tries to disable the internet connection to prevent tracking, Offline Device Lock steps in to secure your phone. This feature ensures your phone stays locked even without an internet connection, adding an extra layer of security in offline scenarios.
4. Remote Lock: If your phone is stolen, you can remotely lock it by visiting android.com/lock. This feature allows you to input your pre-verified phone number and security challenge to lock your device quickly. Google believes this method is faster than using the traditional Find My Device feature and the link to Remote Lock can also be found in the Find My Device settings. Once activated, your device’s screen can be locked twice a day through these methods.

To use these theft protection features, you must enable them in advance and set up Remote Lock by confirming your phone number. Disabling any of these features requires biometric authentication for added security.

Google’s Theft Protection is currently rolling out to Pixel and Samsung devices globally, with more Android 10 and newer devices expected to follow. However, the feature isn’t yet available on tablets. Google initially announced Theft Protection at their I/O 2024 event and began testing the feature in Brazil in June before expanding it worldwide.

Pixel Watch Charging Screen Update: A Visual Refresh for Older Models

Alongside theft protection for phones, Google is also updating the charging screen for older Pixel Watch models, providing users with a cleaner, more modern look. Initially introduced with the Pixel Watch 3, this refreshed screen design is now arriving on older Pixel Watch devices.

1. Visual Changes: The previous charging screen featured an elaborate green animation and a two-line clock. With the update, the animation has been removed, and a sleeker design with a yellow accent for the ring and other interface elements has been introduced. The time is now displayed in white.
2. New Features: On the Pixel Watch 3, the charging screen includes a time-to-full estimate, displayed on the right side of the screen. When the screen is activated, users will notice a brief loading animation while the estimate is calculated. However, on older Pixel Watch models, this time-to-full estimate is not yet functional, though it may be enabled in a future update.
3. Day/Date and Timer Display: Users will see the day and date displayed on the charging screen, with the information flipped compared to previous versions. If a timer is set, it will appear on the left; otherwise, the day/date will be shown on the left, and the month will be displayed on the right.

This new charging screen design is available on Pixel Watches running Wear OS 5. If you are not seeing the updated interface yet, ensure that your apps are up to date, and try restarting your watch.

In summary, Google is pushing forward with two key updates: enhanced theft protection features for Android users and a refreshed charging interface for older Pixel Watch devices. These features are designed to enhance security and usability, providing more control and ease of use across devices. Android users can feel more secure knowing their devices are protected, while Pixel Watch owners can enjoy a cleaner, more intuitive charging display.