Google is adding a
feature to Android’s smart lock that could significantly cut
down on the number of times users need to enter a passcode to
unlock their phones while they are out and about.
On-body detection uses the accelerometer in the phone to detect
when it’s being held or carried by a person. If enabled, the
feature requires a passcode the first time the phone is accessed
but then keeps the device unlocked until it is placed down.
That means, for example, that someone walking down the street
won’t have to unlock their phone every time they take it out of
their pocket.
Like the other elements of smart lock, it should be used with
caution as it can’t detect who is carrying the phone.
“If you unlock your device and hand it to someone else, your
device also stays unlocked as long as the other person continues
to hold or carry it,” reads a message displayed on phones with
the new feature.
The smart lock feature was introduced with Android 5.0 KitKat
and allows users to set zones around trusted places, such as a
home or office, and WiFi or Bluetooth devices, such as a
computer or car radio. When the phone is in those zones it will
remain unlocked once it’s been unlocked the first time.
It can also recognize faces and remain unlocked when it sees a
trusted face..
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