June 12, 2024 – Google is currently testing the Android 15 automatic theft detection feature, which was announced at the I/O developer conference in May. Due to feedback from Brazilian users about the rampant issue of phone theft in the region, Google has selected Brazil as the first test area for this innovative feature. Residents of Brazil now have the opportunity to register and try out this new functionality.
Known as “Theft Detection Lock,” the feature utilizes artificial intelligence to determine whether phone movements indicate a theft is occurring. Besides relying on motion sensors, it can also identify other suspicious activities, such as attempts to use the phone on a different network or if the device remains off its usual network for an extended period.
It’s worth noting that the theft detection capability is part of Android 15’s broader privacy and security enhancement initiative. This comprehensive plan also introduces a password-protected vault called “Private Space” designed to securely store sensitive applications and data. Remarkably, the theft detection feature will be backward compatible with older system versions.
Brazilian Android users are in for additional perks. They can now directly message businesses via WhatsApp through a dedicated button that appears in search results. Moreover, users can conveniently schedule appointments with local service providers like doctors and beauticians straight from the search results. Currently, these two features are exclusive to Brazilian users.
