Google is working on a new feature that aims to enhance the security of smartphone users, though it might annoy some. The “Identity Verification” feature, coming with Android 15, will require biometric authentication to access apps when your phone is outside of locations you’ve defined as secure.

Google might have gone too far with its security measures!

The world-renowned tech giant is initially testing this new system in Google Chrome, developed specifically to protect users from phone thefts. Even if thieves manage to see your PIN code, the system is designed to prevent them from accessing your sensitive data.

With this feature, when you’re detected outside of your trusted locations, you’ll need to use biometric authentication such as facial recognition or fingerprint to access critical features in the Chrome browser, like payment information, incognito mode, and sync settings. This will disable alternative verification methods such as PIN codes or passwords, boosting security to the maximum level.

Code changes discovered by Chrome expert Leopeva64 reveal that this feature will be introduced with the Android 15 QPR1 update. Expected to roll out in December 2024, Google plans to deliver the feature to users via a server-side update through Play Services.

Google’s move seems to echo Apple’s recently announced “Stolen Device Protection” feature. While this focus on user security by tech giants pleases certain groups, it has already frustrated users who don’t want to go through such elaborate processes just to log into their own device.

What do you think about this? Do you find Google’s security measures positive? We invite you to share your opinions in the comments.