Google Expands Android 16 Theft Protection to More Phones, Adding 2G and App Blocks
Updated
Updated · Android Central · Jun 3
Google Expands Android 16 Theft Protection to More Phones, Adding 2G and App Blocks
3 articles · Updated · Android Central · Jun 3
Summary
Android 16 phones with full Google services can now enable Google’s Advanced Protection suite, which bundles theft detection, remote lock and device-location tools into a broader security package.
The system is designed to protect data in the minutes after a phone is snatched, automatically locking devices when theft is detected, when they go offline, or after 3 days unlocked.
Google also hardens the software by forcing Play Protect scans, blocking apps from unknown sources, disabling 2G connections, warning against harmful websites and filtering spam calls, texts and suspicious links.
Theft Protection can be switched on separately in device lock settings, while full Advanced Protection turns it on by default and does not allow users to disable it afterward.
Support extends beyond Pixel to brands such as Samsung, OnePlus, Motorola, Honor and Nothing, but Android 16 devices with limited Google services—such as Fairphone 6—are excluded.