Android 17 introduces fingerprint app locking

Smartphone security usually ends with an unlocked screen. Once someone gains access to an unlocked device, they have access to almost all of the data. Google is planning to change that with the upcoming Android 17 operating system update, as developers are already testing a built-in feature to lock individual apps.

The new security feature was first spotted in the Android 17 QPR2 Beta 3 beta. The user can select an individual app (e.g. social media, messaging platforms or photo gallery) and further protect it. To enter the locked app, you then need to enter a password or use biometric data such as facial recognition or fingerprint.

Additionally, when locked, the system automatically disables notifications from the selected app and prevents widgets and shortcuts from appearing on the home screen. This prevents unauthorized access to private messages, unwanted purchases, or changes to settings.

The options are managed in the system settings under the security and privacy section, where the feature can be turned on for multiple apps at once. There is also a faster way, where the user can hold down the desired app icon on the home screen or in the menu and lock it. Google warns that approved services and AI tools still have access to data within a locked app, so to completely block these rights, these rights must be revoked manually.

For years, Android users have relied on third-party solutions or custom interfaces from manufacturers like OnePlus to provide similar protection. These options often only offered a basic level of security, but the new system feature will unify protection.

The new security feature is currently only available on Google Pixel devices in beta. Google plans to officially release QPR2 in December, when it should reach a wider range of devices (such as Samsung). Google sometimes removes or postpones certain options during testing, although this is unlikely for this feature.