Google has launched Identity Check, a new security feature for Android devices that requires biometric authentication for sensitive settings when users are outside trusted locations.
You define specific locations as “trusted” (e.g., home, work).
Then, when attempting to access sensitive settings (like passkeys, app passwords, PIN changes or modifying theft protection settings) outside of a trusted location, the device requires biometric authentication (fingerprint, face recognition).
Currently, Identity Check is available on Google Pixel phones running Android 15 and select Samsung Galaxy devices with One UI 7.
You can enable Identity Check by navigating to Settings > Google > All services > Theft protection > Identity Check.
Google is working with GSMA to develop additional systems aimed at combating mobile device theft, with more details expected to be announced soon.
All these anti theft security features would actually be useful if android wasnt so easy to jus wipe and reset like Apple does it.