Google clarifies: Android auto-restart security feature isn't live yet

By Admin

18 Apr, 2025

In the ever-evolving landscape of mobile security, Google appears to be preparing a thoughtful addition to its Android ecosystem. Recently, tech enthusiasts and developers spotted a new feature embedded in the latest release of Google Play Services — an auto-restart mechanism designed to enhance device security. According to the findings, the feature would automatically restart your Android phone or tablet if it remains locked for 72 consecutive hours.

The concept behind this feature is centered around strengthening data protection. When an Android device is restarted, it enters what is known as the "Before First Unlock" state. In this mode, your data is more securely encrypted and harder to access compared to the "After First Unlock" state, which occurs once the user enters their passcode or unlocks the device.

However, before users get too excited, Google has issued a clarification: this feature is not live yet. While it's present in the backend code, it currently lacks a user interface, which means it can't be interacted with or activated. Google has confirmed that a UI will arrive in a future update, and when the feature does become functional, it will be opt-in only — meaning it won’t be enabled by default. Users who wish to utilize this security tool will need to manually activate it via the Settings menu.

There’s no confirmed timeline on when the user interface will be added or when the feature will be fully rolled out. But given the importance of data protection, many are hopeful that it will be released sooner rather than later. Notably, Apple introduced a similar feature with iOS 18.1, showcasing a growing trend in the industry toward proactive security solutions.

Until the update becomes official, Android users will need to keep their eyes on upcoming versions of Google Play Services for any signs of its arrival. Once it’s live, it could serve as an effective way to keep sensitive data more secure, particularly on unattended or lost devices.