Google has just announced the "Identity Check" feature on Android 15, allowing the use of biometrics to protect sensitive areas on the phone in case the device falls into the hands of bad guys.
This feature will help protect personal data, even if the phone is stolen and the thief knows the PIN to unlock the screen.
According to Google,identity Control will be rolled out first on Pixel phones and Samsung devices running the One UI 7 ( Android 15.) interface. However, because One UI 7 was initially only available on the new Galaxy S25 series, users on other devices will have to wait a while longer to activate this feature.
Identification checking is the user option that needs to be activated in the "Theft Protection" menu. When this feature is enabled, the phone will require biometric authentication to access sensitive resources when users are outside "reliable locations".
Google says Identification verification will protect device settings and Google accounts on supported devices more closely. At the same time, this feature also provides an additional layer of security for Samsung accounts, helping to reduce the risk of account misappropriation and protect important data.
After activation, Identification Control will prevent behaviors such as changing PIN codes, disabling biometric features or turning off anti-theft protection mode.
With the combination ofidentity Control and other modern security features, Google hopes to bring a safer environment to Android users against the risks of device theft.