Google has unveiled a powerful new set of security enhancements with Android 16, designed to make stolen phones virtually worthless to thieves. Announced during the recent Android Show event, the upcoming mobile OS update introduces a feature called Advanced Protection, which incorporates a range of tools aimed at preventing unauthorized access and resale of stolen devices.
Once a phone is upgraded to Android 16, users will have the option to activate Advanced Protection. This security suite includes Intrusion Logging, Inactivity Reboot, USB Protection, the ability to disable auto-connect to insecure Wi-Fi networks, and upcoming integration with Scam Detection for Phone, expected later this year.
One of the key features, Intrusion Logging, will routinely monitor the device for suspicious or illegal attempts to unlock it. If it detects tampering, it will trigger a detailed forensic analysis of the device. To safeguard user credentials such as IDs and passwords, Android 16 will store these logs securely in the cloud using end-to-end encryption. Importantly, only the device owner will have access—even Google won’t be able to view them.
The update will also enhance Factory Reset Protection (FRP), a tool aimed at stopping stolen phones from being reset and resold. Previously, some thieves were able to bypass security settings after a factory reset and sell the phone as refurbished. Now, Android 16’s upgraded FRP will lock the device completely after a reset. To reactivate it, the user will need to enter the original credentials. Without this, the phone remains unusable—essentially turning into an expensive paperweight.
Another layer of security comes with Inactivity Reboot, which will automatically restart a phone that remains locked and unused for over 72 hours. This makes the data inaccessible until the rightful user authenticates with a passcode, fingerprint, or Face ID.
USB Protection is another major addition, built to defend against physical hacks—particularly when a device is connected to potentially risky public USB charging ports, such as those found in train stations or airports.
To further reduce risks in public spaces, Android 16 will also allow phones to automatically avoid reconnecting to unsecured Wi-Fi networks. If the system determines a network is untrustworthy—particularly in areas like airports or malls—it will block auto-reconnection, reducing the chance of man-in-the-middle attacks.
According to Google, some of these features, such as Factory Reset Protection and Inactivity Reboot, will be available in the initial Android 16 update rolling out this June. Others, including Intrusion Logging and USB Protection, will follow later in the year.