Android to Get Auto-Reboot Security Measure After 3 Days of Inactivity

Android devices will soon have a new security feature that automatically restarts phones and tablets if they remain locked for three consecutive days or more. This update is part of Google Play services version 25.14, which is rolling out to users over the coming weeks. According to the release notes, the update will apply to phones and tablets but not to Android Auto, TV, WearOS, or the Play Games Windows app, as reported by Android Authority.

The new auto-reboot has been made to provide extra protection for users. When a device restarts after being locked for 72 hours, it returns to a “Before First Unlock” (BFU) state. In this state, all user data is encrypted and cannot be accessed until the user enters their PIN, password, or pattern.

Biometric logins, such as fingerprint or face unlock, are also disabled until the passcode is entered. This makes it much harder ...