Android 16, the next major update for Android devices, is set to bring important security enhancements this summer. Google aims to combat fraud and prevent the exploitation of stolen phones with several new features. After introducing AI-driven tools in March to spot scam messages using common text patterns, Google is now expanding its approach. The tech giant is training its models to detect a wider range of fraud, including road toll scams, which have become more prevalent this year. Plus, Google Play Protect will now be quicker at identifying harmful apps.
One of the standout changes in Android 16 is the restriction on granting certain accessibility privileges during calls with unknown numbers. This is paired with the introduction of the Key Verifier feature, which prevents scammers from impersonating your contacts. The new tool allows users to exchange public encryption keys with trusted people, making it easier to verify each other's identities.
For users concerned about phone theft, Android 16 adds more layers of protection. A new feature, Identity Check, now requires biometric verification to alter sensitive settings if you're outside of a trusted location. Originally launched on certain Pixel and Galaxy phones in January, it will now be more widely available. This aims to prevent incidents where thieves steal phones by observing passcode entry in public spaces, a common issue in crowded places like bars.
Other anti-theft measures include a new security question when trying to disable remote locks, along with stricter limitations on actions taken after a factory reset. Android 16 will also hide two-factor authentication codes received via text on the lock screen if the phone has been offline or not unlocked for some time.
The update also introduces Advanced Protection, a centralized security feature that groups multiple settings together. Once activated, no part of the system under this umbrella can be turned off.
Google is also enhancing its Find My Device tool by expanding it into Find Hub. This new service allows users to track any object with a Bluetooth tag or smart technology. Devices equipped with ultra-wideband (UWB) will offer more precise location tracking, and satellite communication ensures functionality even outside cellular network coverage.
These updates were revealed during Google’s pre-recorded Android Show on May 13, which also highlighted the introduction of Material 3 Expressive design, expanded Gemini AI for Wear OS and Android Auto, and additional security improvements. Google plans to make further announcements about AI developments at the Google I/O 2025 conference, taking place from May 20 to May 23.
Read next: Google Homepage Pushes AI Mode Forward, Leaves 'I'm Feeling Lucky' Button Behind
One of the standout changes in Android 16 is the restriction on granting certain accessibility privileges during calls with unknown numbers. This is paired with the introduction of the Key Verifier feature, which prevents scammers from impersonating your contacts. The new tool allows users to exchange public encryption keys with trusted people, making it easier to verify each other's identities.
For users concerned about phone theft, Android 16 adds more layers of protection. A new feature, Identity Check, now requires biometric verification to alter sensitive settings if you're outside of a trusted location. Originally launched on certain Pixel and Galaxy phones in January, it will now be more widely available. This aims to prevent incidents where thieves steal phones by observing passcode entry in public spaces, a common issue in crowded places like bars.
Other anti-theft measures include a new security question when trying to disable remote locks, along with stricter limitations on actions taken after a factory reset. Android 16 will also hide two-factor authentication codes received via text on the lock screen if the phone has been offline or not unlocked for some time.
The update also introduces Advanced Protection, a centralized security feature that groups multiple settings together. Once activated, no part of the system under this umbrella can be turned off.
Google is also enhancing its Find My Device tool by expanding it into Find Hub. This new service allows users to track any object with a Bluetooth tag or smart technology. Devices equipped with ultra-wideband (UWB) will offer more precise location tracking, and satellite communication ensures functionality even outside cellular network coverage.
These updates were revealed during Google’s pre-recorded Android Show on May 13, which also highlighted the introduction of Material 3 Expressive design, expanded Gemini AI for Wear OS and Android Auto, and additional security improvements. Google plans to make further announcements about AI developments at the Google I/O 2025 conference, taking place from May 20 to May 23.
Read next: Google Homepage Pushes AI Mode Forward, Leaves 'I'm Feeling Lucky' Button Behind
