Google Identity Check feature: What is it and how it will protect against smartphone theft

How does Google’s new Identity Check feature improve security and protect Android devices from theft? Here’s what you need to know about this new feature.

By: MD IJAJ KHAN
| Updated on: Jan 27 2025, 11:57 IST
5 Google Maps features that are not available in India
Google Identity Check feature
1/6 Google Maps is the most popular navigation app that is used in over 220 countries. It gives real-time traffic, navigation and transit details based on the country of the user. There are many features of Google Maps that are available in other countries and not in India. Here’s a look at some of them:
Google Identity Check feature
2/6 Google launched the search with live view feature in September last year. This feature facilitates the search functionality with augmented reality. The users can use their smartphone cameras to take a visual tour of the route through floating arrows by using the Live View AR feature of Google Maps. The Live View AR feature displays the relative location of landmarks more accurately. For instance, for visiting the Camp Nou stadium in Barcelona, users can open the Live View AR feature on their smartphone and reach the location by following the visual guide. According to Google, currently the feature is accessible in London, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Paris and Tokyo. It is coming soon to Barcelona, Dublin and Madrid. (Pixabay)
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3/6 The Indoor Live View feature is the extension of the outdoor live view. Similar to outdoor live view that helps in locating outdoor landmarks, the indoor live view helps users in navigation inside malls, train stations and airports. As per Google, the indoor view feature is available in more than 1,000 new airports, malls and train stations across  Barcelona, Berlin, Frankfurt, London, Madrid, Melbourne, Paris, Prague, São Paulo, Singapore, Sydney, and Taipei.
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4/6 Immersive view feature was launched by Google last year for enabling users to look at the multi-dimensional views of an area along with the details such around traffic, weather and busyness. Google maps uses predictive modeling technology to find the historical information about a place and predict how the area will be like the next day, in the coming week and month. For instance, a user can go to the immersive view option to look at the details about the traffic status, peak hours, entry timings and the views of Red Fort and plan their visit accordingly. The time slider within the feature will allow them to view how the monument appears during different times of a day. Users can also check out the nearby restaurants and hotels before visiting the place. The immersive view feature is available in Los Angeles, London, New York, San Francisco and Tokyo on Android and iOS.
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5/6 By using Google Maps eco-friendly route feature, the users can travel to their desired destinations by taking an eco-friendly route. Google Maps enabled eco-friendly routing system uses the AI and information from local authorities for determining the fastest and most fuel efficient travel route for users. The feature also allows users to compare between two routes based on fuel-efficiency and travelling time and select accordingly. Google Maps eco-friendly route feature is available in US, Canada and 40 other countries in Europe. 
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6/6 Google introduced the lite navigation feature for cyclists under its eco-friendly navigation initiative. Lite navigation enables cyclists to travel without the need of filling details of navigation and cycle with ease without touching their phones. Lite navigation helps cyclists in keeping track of details like trip progress, elevation of route and real-time ETA updates without the need of entering turn by turn navigation details. 
Google Identity Check feature
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Google's new “Identity Check” feature in Android 15 offers enhanced protection against smartphone theft. (Google)

Smartphone theft continues to pose a significant challenge worldwide, despite ongoing efforts to mitigate the issue. In response, Google is introducing the Identity Check feature as part of Android 15's “Theft Protection” suite, aiming to improve device security.

Smartphones hold sensitive data, and if stolen, these devices can expose users to risks like identity theft, financial fraud, and privacy breaches. Google highlighted the importance of enhanced security in a recent blog post, emphasising the need for proactive measures to protect user data in the event of theft.

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Google Identity Check Feature: Biometric Authentication for Enhanced Security

The Identity Check feature, currently being rolled out to Pixel smartphones and Samsung Galaxy devices running Android 15, adds a layer of security that prevents unauthorised access to digital accounts, even if the device is unlocked or the password has been compromised. When activated, the feature requires users to complete biometric authentication to access critical accounts and device settings, particularly when the phone is outside designated trusted locations. Users can configure trusted places, such as home or work addresses, to ensure the device remains secure in familiar environments.

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Integrated within the theft protection settings on Android 15 devices, Identity Check mandates biometric verification before allowing users to modify key settings, including PIN changes, disabling theft protection, or accessing sensitive account details like Passkeys. The feature aims to safeguard against unauthorised actions by requiring identification when the device is located outside trusted zones.

This security measure is designed to protect users if their phone is left unattended or accessed by an unauthorised person, even if the device is unlocked. By confirming the user's identity when the device is outside a trusted location, Identity Check offers additional protection beyond standard theft detection methods. Google is also expanding its theft detection lock feature, which is now available on Android 10 and newer versions, as part of a broader effort to address smartphone theft.

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Industry Collaboration for Better Protection

Google has teamed up with GSMA and industry experts to enhance the fight against mobile device theft. The collaboration includes sharing information, tools, and strategies for better protection. Additionally, a white paper, developed in partnership with the mobile industry, will provide further guidance on safeguarding individuals and organisations from device theft.

The Identity Check feature is initially launching on Pixel devices with Android 15 and Samsung Galaxy devices running the One UI 7 update. Users can expect an update for their devices soon, as Google continues to strengthen security features on Android.

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First Published Date: 27 Jan, 11:57 IST
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