Google has officially launched its new Identity Check feature, designed to improve security for Android users. This feature is available for select devices and adds an extra layer of protection, especially when your smartphone is accessed by someone else. The goal is to make it harder for unauthorised users to access sensitive data or change important settings on your device.
What does the Identity Check feature do?
The Identity Check feature uses biometric authentication methods such as facial recognition and fingerprints to ensure that only the device owner can access critical data or alter sensitive settings. This means that even if someone else gains access to your phone, they won’t be able to make changes without verifying their identity through biometric authentication. This extra step adds an additional security measure that can prevent unauthorised access to the phone.
Activation of identity check when outside trusted locations
The feature kicks in when your device is not in a “trusted location.” Trusted locations are typically places you frequent, like your home or workplace. If someone attempts to access your device in an untrusted location, such as a public place or another person’s home, the Identity Check will require biometric authentication before they can make any changes to your phone. For example, it will stop attempts to change your security PIN or disable the anti-theft settings.
This is an important safeguard because it ensures that if your phone is stolen or misplaced, only you (the rightful owner) can alter security settings or disable theft protection features. However, it’s important to note that this feature may not be as effective if the device is used in a trusted location, where the thief may still be able to access the device without triggering the authentication requirements.
Compatibility and how to activate
Currently, the Identity Check feature is available for Google Pixel devices running the Android 15 QPR1 stable version and select Samsung Galaxy devices running One UI 7. If you own one of these devices, you can activate the feature by going to Settings, then Google services and preferences. From there, navigate to your primary Google account and then to Theft protection, where you can enable the feature.
For users with other devices, it’s expected that this update will roll out in the coming months, expanding to a wider range of Android smartphones.
