Next to i/o 2025, Google recently hosted the Android Show: I/O version, where it appeared first on Android 16, OS 6 wearing and upcoming Gemini features. A feature that the company spotlight in its point is the upcoming mobile safety and theft protection. The new theft security is part of Google’s factory reset protection (FRP) and will be rolled out with Android 16.

Planned for rollouts later this year, Google says that this new update for FRP will make the stolen Android phone practically useless if they reset without the owner’s permission. Currently, the FRP feature becomes activated when a device resets using a recovery mode or a Google’s Find My device. After such a reset, Android phone asks for the previous Google account credentials or screen locks, before it can be re -set.

This mechanism discourages the theft by already blocking unauthorized users from reuse or rehabilitation. However, in the last few years, the thieves have succeeded in working around this security process-as per the setup wizard-allowed limited use of the device, or at least confusion of functionality, making it easy for them to sell it to other hand buyers.

The new and difficult FRP system is asked to combat this problem. During the Android show, Android will soon find out if the setup wizard is bypassed during the reset. If it detects it, the system will constantly trigger another factory reset and motivate the user to verify ownership by re -recording the previous Google account credentials or screen lock.

Google has not shared several details on this new update, but it seems that this certification process can go into the loop and essentially make the stolen phone unusable until the real owner enters the passcode.

A screenshot shared during the incident reflects this change. This shows a warning that reads, “This device was resettured, but authentication failed during the setup. To use this device, reset again and enter the previous screen lock or Google account credentials of the device. This suggests that the device will not allow basic use – such as access to emergency calls or settings – until ownership is verified. In short, the phone becomes useless.

Google has not confirmed whether advanced FRP enhancement will be part of the initial stable release of Android 16 or if it will come with an update later this year.

Google is also rolling more features as part of its widespread theft safety suit. For example, the company has recently launched an identity check feature, which adds another layer of security even if you have a Pixel and Samsung devices on a UI7, even if you have a compromise with your password or PIN. Google has now confirmed that it will soon expand to more manufacturers as they adopt Android 16.

Additionally, Android 16 will include security for a one -time password (OTPS) in high -risk conditions. Google said in its official blog post, “In high -risk landscapes, Android will hide a one -time password on your lock screen, ensuring that only you can see them after unlocking your device.”