New Android Security Feature Will Auto-Restart Your Phone If It’s Locked for 3 Days
In a major security boost for Android users, Google is rolling out a new feature in its Google Play Services update (version 25.14) that could help protect your personal data if your phone is ever lost or stolen.
Here’s What the Feature Does
If your Android phone has been locked and untouched for three consecutive days, the new update will automatically restart the device. Once restarted, your phone returns to its “Before First Unlock” state — a more secure mode where data remains encrypted and far harder to access without proper credentials.
This mode is significantly more secure than the “After First Unlock” state, which is triggered after the user first enters their passcode post-reboot. Essentially, if someone steals your phone and tries to access it without unlocking it, they’ll have a much harder time breaking through encryption after this forced restart.
Why This Matters
This update introduces an added layer of protection for Android users who might leave their phones unattended or lose them in public spaces. By rebooting the device automatically, Google ensures that any lingering security vulnerabilities are minimized.
It’s a smart move — especially considering that Apple introduced a similar feature in iOS 18.1, known as Inactivity Reboot, which works along the same lines.
Not for Wear OS Devices
The feature is limited to Android smartphones and tablets only. Google has confirmed that Wear OS devices will not receive this functionality, as their usage patterns and security needs differ from mobile phones.
A Smarter Way to Roll Out Security
What makes this update even more efficient is that it comes through Google Play Services, not a full OS upgrade. This means users don’t need to wait for Android 15 or a system patch — it’s part of Google’s new approach to quicker, seamless security rollouts.
