Android 16 will let you unlock Advanced Protection via single tap

Android 16 aims to provide a solid security service to its users, and one step in this direction is the Advanced Protection mode. Google is preparing a new feature that will modify the application behavior based on the user’s security mode.

The “Advanced Protection” is not a new term in the Android world. Google has been using this program for a long while to protect your online presence from scams.

It tightens the security by requiring the use of a security key or pass key to sign in to a Google account. Thus, the feature restricts the sideloading of apps.

With Android 16, the company aims to double the Advanced Protection for users. The new feature will allow applications to detect when a user enters the Advanced Protection mode and automatically alter their security settings accordingly.

Android Advanced Protection Mode (Image Credits: AndroidAuthority)

Spotted by AndroidAuthority, Android 16 has a new API called AdvancedProtectionManager. It will enable apps to check if the user is enrolled in Advanced Protection. Let’s understand the scenario with an example.

If you are a Signal (open-source messaging app) user, then it will auto-enable its built-in screen lock and screenshot-blocking feature for those enrolled in Advanced Protection. Note that this will only be possible with the above-mentioned API.

The API will eliminate the requirement of manually enabling additional security settings. It will further disable 2G connectivity and enable MTE (a tool to help apps detect memory-related issues and exploits in a device). Users can access the new mode with just one click.

AdvancedProtctionManager API is present in Android 16 Beta 2 but it does not lead to the new Advanced Protection mode for now. Perhaps, Google will make it available with the official Android 16 software version in the time ahead.

Android 16 Advanced Protection API (Image Credits: Android Authority)

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