DUBAI: Android will soon boost device security with a new auto-reboot feature. Devices will restart automatically if left locked for three days.
This update is part of the latest Google Play services release. After the reboot, users must enter a passcode to access their data.
9to5Google reports that the feature will work on Android phones and tablets. It will not apply to Auto, TV, or WearOS devices.
The reboot puts the device in a “Before First Unlock” (BFU) state. In this state, data stays encrypted, and biometric login is disabled until the correct PIN is entered.
Apple launched a similar feature in iOS 18.1. It restarts iPhones after four days of inactivity.
Google has not yet shared a rollout timeline. The update, version 25.14, may take one to two weeks to reach users.
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It’s unclear if Android will warn users before the reboot. However, Android already shows a message on the PIN screen, reminding users to enter a passcode after a restart.
