Android Phones to Automatically Restart Like iPhones: Understand the New Feature

Apple’s Inactivity Reboot Feature Inspires Android Update

In November 2024, a peculiar incident involving Apple iPhones emerged when users noticed that their devices were automatically rebooting after being left locked for an extended period. This behavior, it was later confirmed, was not a malfunction but rather a security feature introduced with iOS 18.1 known as “inactivity reboot.”This functionality was designed to enhance device security by requiring users to enter their password or PIN after a reboot.

Google Adopts a Similar Approach

Recognizing the value of this security measure, Google has followed suit. With the recent rollout of version 25.14 of Google Play Services, Android devices will now also restart automatically if they remain locked for three days. Upon reboot, users will be prompted to enter their password or PIN, ensuring an additional layer of security.

Details from the Google Play Services Release Notes

The announcement regarding this feature can be found in the release notes for version 25.14, highlighted by 9to5Google. Here is a relevant excerpt:

With this feature, your device automatically restarts if locked for 3 consecutive days.

Additional Improvements in the Update

This latest update introduced several enhancements beyond the inactivity reboot feature. Below is a summary of the other notable changes included in the update:

Device Connectivity

[Phone] Receivers can now preview content before accepting a Quick Share transfer.

[Auto, Phone, TV, Wear] Resolved various issues related to device connectivity services to enhance user experience.

Location & Context

[Phone] The on-device location history settings page has been updated to incorporate Google Material expressive components.

Security & Privacy

[Phone] Automatic device reboot if locked for 3 consecutive days for enhanced security.

System Management

[Auto, PC, Phone, TV, Wear] Improvements to system management services that bolster stability.

[Auto] Introduction of the Location Time Zone Provider (LTZP) feature.

[Auto, PC, Phone, TV, Wear] Updated user interface for the Usage and Diagnostics screen.

Utilities

[Phone] Streamlined setup process for new devices and simpler data transfer from old devices.

[Phone] Various bug fixes related to Utilities services.

Wallet

[Phone] New features for developers enabling support for Digital Wallet & Payments within their applications.

Enhanced Security in Sideloading

In addition to the inactivity reboot feature, Google has recently implemented updates geared towards safer app sideloading, reinforcing Android’s commitment to security. For more insights on this topic, refer to the related article.

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