With the latest update to Google Play services (version 25.14), Android is rolling out a new security feature that automatically restarts unused and locked devices for three consecutive days.
According to the release notes under the “Security & Privacy” section:
“[Phone] With this feature, your device automatically restarts if locked for 3 consecutive days.”
While the note references “Phone,” the feature is expected to apply to tablets as well. Other platforms like Android Auto, PC (via the Play Games Windows app), Android TV, and Wear OS are excluded. The auto-reboot will trigger if a phone or tablet hasn’t been accessed in over 72 hours.
This restart places the device into a “Before First Unlock” (BFU) state, where user data is more securely encrypted and inaccessible until a passcode is entered—biometric logins are also disabled at this stage. On Pixel phones, for instance, the lockscreen displays a message stating: “Unlock for all features and data.” By contrast, after unlocking once, devices enter the “After First Unlock” (AFU) state, which may be less secure.
This kind of proactive security feature already exists in privacy-focused platforms like GrapheneOS, which allows users to configure an auto-reboot timer ranging from 10 minutes to 72 hours (defaulting to 18 hours). Apple introduced a similar feature, “Inactivity Reboot,” with iOS 18.1 in 2024.
Google Play services version 25.14 is rolling out gradually over the coming week, but the auto-reboot capability may take additional time to become active. Since it’s part of Play services, the feature will reach most Android devices without needing a full OS update.
Google has not yet provided further information, such as which Android versions are supported or whether users will have control over the settings. It’s also unclear if users will be notified after such a reboot occurs—something many would likely appreciate.
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