Google wants to make it impossible for thieves to sell stolen Android phones — here's how

Google's new anti-theft feature with Android 16 may make stolen phones useless: Report

The update would be much stricter than the feature in Android devices which allows stolen phones to be used for things such as making calls.

Google wants to make it impossible for thieves to sell stolen Android phones — here's how

Android will soon see some improvements to its Factory Reset Protections that could make it much harder to circumvent security on a stolen device.

Android is making stolen phones unusable with enhanced theft protection

Google hosted The Android Show: I/O Edition this week, offering a preview of Android 16 and Wear OS 6. While Gemini AI stole the spotlight, the company also showcased an updated Factory Reset Protection feature aimed at making stolen Android devices virtually unusable. Updates to the OS will lock down...Read Entire Article

By the end of the year, Google will launch a second check for reset on Android smartphones to prevent the sale of stolen units.

Google attacks the stolen smartphone market by strengthening Android's security. The company unveils new measures to complicate the resale of stolen phones, with the aim of protecting users and personal data.

Google's new anti-theft feature in Android 16 could render stolen phones useless: Report

Android 16 Enhanced security measure aims to block all functionality without owner credentials Google is preparing to introduce a powerful new anti-theft feature that could make stolen phones virtually useless, according to a recent report from Android Police. The enhanced security measure is expected to debut with Android 16, significantly strengthening the platform’s existing theft protection capabilities. Building on existing security framewo…