Your Android May Become More Secure with Smartwatch Verification

Ever worried about losing your phone, especially when you’re out and about? Google is constantly beefing up Android’s security, and a new feature called Identity Check has already been in place since Android 15. It helps your device to get extra protection against theft when you’re outside of your usual “safe zones.” But what if security could be even more seamless? With that in mind, Google might improve Android’s Identity Check soon, involving your smartwatch.

It looks like Google is working on an interesting security upgrade for your Android devices. Recent code snippets found by the Android Authority team in a beta version of Google Play Services suggest that your connected watch might soon act as a trust signal for your phone. Imagine this: if your smartwatch is nearby and strapped to your wrist, your phone could take that as a sign that you’re indeed the person in control.

Your smartwatch as your Identity Check “key” for your Android phone

This simple but neat system could potentially reduce how often you need to use your fingerprint or PIN to access sensitive information or settings when you’re away from home or work. Something like this probably won’t eliminate biometrics entirely. However, it could strike a better balance between keeping your phone secure and making it more convenient to use every day. Think of it as an extra layer of smart, subtle security that works in the background. The point seems to be that your Android’s theft protection feels a bit less intrusive.

This feature is still in development, so we don’t have all the details yet. There are also no details on when it might roll out to everyone. But it’s a logical next step for Android security. Our devices are more connected than ever, and resorting to wearables for identity verification just makes sense. Of course, it goes without saying, this all assumes your smartwatch isn’t swiped along with your phone.