Google finally bringing AI-powered anti-theft upgrade to Android

With global crime rates in the rise, many people often worry about their phones being snatched. However, Android users may worry less now because their phones will soon be protected by artificial intelligence.

In May, Google announced plans to introduce an advanced anti-theft feature for Android phones, set to debut with Android 15 and fans have been anticipating the exciting feature ever since.

According to Google, the Theft Detection Lock tool is designed to use AI technology and the phone's gyroscope and accelerometer to identify suspicious movements associated with theft.

Upon sensing erratic motion patterns, such as a sudden jerk followed by rapid acceleration, the feature will swiftly lock the device's screen, safeguarding the owner’s personal information.

According to ZDNET, Google is finally rolling out the much-awaited AI-powered feature but only to a select group of users in Brazil who signed up for the company’s beta program.

Once the feature rolls out fully, it will "probably start with newer Google phones but will eventually be available on all Android 10+ devices, or essentially any modern Android phone," ZDNET reported.

Earlier this year, Google had announced several tools to protect your data "before, during and after a theft," including:

• Making it more difficult to factory reset a phone and set it up under a new account.
• Private spaces to hide sensitive apps.
• The ability to mark your phone as lost on Find My Device for easier tracking.
• Automatic lock for excessive failed authentication.
• The ability to lock your phone if it's offline.
• Remote lock, which lets you lock your phone's screen using just your number and a quick security challenge.