Stolen phones will become useless with new Google anti-theft feature

Google is set to introduce a major anti-theft feature with Android 16. The new feature will aim to make stolen phones virtually useless. The update will include enhanced security tools that will "restrict all functionalities on devices that are reset without the owner's authorization". The move is part of Google's broader effort to curb mobile theft, which continues to rise globally. The feature is expected to roll out later this year with the Android 16 operating system.

The new feature during 'The Android Show: I/O Edition' recently. It basically augments Factory Reset Protection (FRP) - a security feature designed to make stolen phones unusable. Google has made several improvements to FRP in Android 15, and the next Android update will further strengthen it.

Though Google hasn't officially said anything about the new functionality, Android Police carried a screenshot that it said sheds light on Google's plans. The screenshot shows a factory reset warning flashing on the screen of the phone - something that Android 16 will force users to do on a stolen device if they somehow bypass the setup wizard.

This means that the company will block all functionality on the device until the user resets it and enters previous lock screen lock or Google account credentials.

This is a more stringent implantation of the security feature than the current structure, which allows stolen devices to be used for making phone calls and other purposes.

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