Google has announced several new security features for Android 15 and one of the most important such feature is the possibility of detecting when a smartphone is stolen.

Supposedly, Android 15 will be able to identify when a smartphone is stolen from the owner’s hand or when it is taken from the table by someone other than the owner. This new feature will be called Theft Detection Lock and will try to identify unusual movements, which the owner does not normally make, to detect the theft of an Android-powered smartphone.

After detecting the theft, the screen will be locked automatically. The user will also be able to do lock his device remotely by going to android.com/lock from another device.

Now comes the most interesting part. Android 15 will have what Google calls “private spaces“. These will be hidden virtual spaces that can be locked with a code and where applications and data can be kept more secure. But let’s face it, we all know what these private spaces will be used for. Hiding porn. Why would you add extra security measures to a smartphone that’s already locked by fingerprint and has banking apps under a login? These private spaces will be used to hide certain images & other media that you wouldn’t want someone seeing (i.e. your family) and be ashamed of. Used to, you could hide these porn folders by creating a very deep folder structure and giving it a boring name. Android 15 to the rescue, from now on you’ll simply be able to create a private space, add a different password to it and have it locked keeping your very dark secrets safe.

Oh yea’, Google also says it will improve Play Protect to be able to identify faster and better fraud and phishing apps. In essence, in terms of security, these are the most important Android 15 features:

  • AI-Powered screen lock. Your smartphone will lock automatically when it “senses” danger. You won’t have to worry anymore when leaving your smartphone around the house unlocked, as even if another family member finds it the screen lock will kick in.
  • Remote lock. You will be able to lock your device remotely if you lose it or if it gets stolen.
  • Factory reset protection. Prevents unauthorized factory resets, making it difficult for thieves to wipe and reuse the device. Or not necessarily thieves, but friends that don’t know the limits of practical jokes.
  • Private space for sensitive apps (aka hidden porn folders). Offers a secure area for sensitive apps, ensuring data remains safe even if the device is compromised. Not only apps, but other data that’s why I think its main use will be hiding certain type of media.
  • Enhanced authentication measures. The usual authentication measures (i.e. facial recognition, fingerprints, and PINs) will be enhanced for even more security..

You can also watch a detailed presentation of these security features here: