Google is reportedly gearing up to introduce a robust anti-theft upgrade with Android 16 that could make stolen phones nearly impossible to use. According to a report by Android Police, this upcoming feature aims to significantly strengthen the current security protocols and limit the usability of stolen devices.

While Android already includes features like Factory Reset Protection (FRP) to discourage unauthorised access, hackers have found workarounds in many cases. The new system, which was previewed during Google’s “The Android Show: I/O Edition,” appears to be an enhanced version of FRP.

Currently, FRP requires a user to log in with the original Google account after a factory reset to regain access. However, the Android 16 feature reportedly takes this further, locking down all device functionality if someone tries to bypass the setup without proper authentication.

A screenshot shared during the presentation suggests that when a stolen phone is reset and the setup process is skipped, the system will display a warning and lock the device completely. The only way to regain access would be by entering the correct screen lock credentials or logging into the original Google account associated with the phone.

This tighter control means that stolen Android phones would no longer be usable even for basic tasks like making calls—something current systems occasionally still allow.

Android 16 launch soon

The stable release of Android 16 is expected as early as June, starting with Google’s Pixel lineup. Along with this new security feature, the update will introduce several enhancements, including a refreshed user interface and deeper integration of Google’s Gemini AI tools.

However, the Android 16 update won't support all Android devices. Only relatively recent models will be eligible to install it once available.

Initial updates are likely to roll out to the following Pixel devices:

Pixel 6 series: Pixel 6, 6 Pro, and 6a

Pixel 7 series: Pixel 7, 7 Pro, and 7a

Pixel 8 series: Pixel 8, 8 Pro, and 8a

Pixel Fold

Upcoming Pixel 9 models: including Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold, and 9a