Google is poised to roll out significant security enhancements to its Find My Device app, making it both more secure and user-friendly. Two key features are in development: biometric login support and a new Remote Lock function.
Biometric Login: Balancing Security and Convenience
Currently, users must enter their Google account password each time they open the Find My Device app, which can be cumbersome. While there's an option to skip this step, it potentially leaves the app vulnerable if someone gains access to an unlocked phone.
To address this, Google is introducing biometric authentication:
- Users will be able to use fingerprint or face recognition to access the app
- This provides a balance between security and ease of use
- The feature is not yet live but has been spotted in app code by researchers
Remote Lock: Securing Lost Devices Made Easier
Google is also developing a new Remote Lock feature, which will offer a simpler way to secure a lost device:
- Users can lock their device remotely using just their phone number
- A quick security challenge will be required to verify identity
- This feature will be especially useful for those who use password managers or passkeys for their Google account
Remote Lock is expected to roll out later this year via a Google Play Services update for devices running Android 10 and above.
Expanding Network and Device Support
These security upgrades come as Google continues to expand its Find My Device network:
- The network is rolling out to more countries, including Japan and the UK
- An increasing number of Android devices now support the network
- Pixel devices offer additional functionality, such as being locatable when powered off
As Android trackers become more common and the Find My Device network expands globally, these security enhancements will play a crucial role in protecting users' devices and data.
While release dates for these features haven't been announced, their presence in app code suggests they may be available in the near future, further strengthening Google's device security ecosystem.