Android Phones Now Auto-Restart After Three Days of Inactivity for Enhanced Security
By Staff Writer . Mobile & Tech News . April 16, 2025
Google has begun rolling out a subtle yet impactful security feature via the latest Google Play Services update (version 25.14). Now, Android phones and tablets will automatically restart if theyโve been locked and unused for three consecutive days โ a move aimed at enhancing device security and limiting unauthorized data access.
How It Works: Auto-Restart to Secure Encryption State
The new feature triggers an auto-reboot that places the device in its โBefore First Unlockโ (BFU) state. In this state, even if someone physically possesses the device, the data remains encrypted and inaccessible until a valid passcode or authentication is entered. This contrasts with the โAfter First Unlockโ (AFU) state, where some data is easier to extract.
The auto-restart will happen quietly in the background and affects only Android phones and tablets โ Wear OS devices are excluded from this rollout.
Security Benefits and Apple Parallels
This proactive security mechanism aligns Android with Appleโs Inactivity Reboot feature introduced in iOS 18.1, signaling a broader industry trend toward default protections against data breaches in the event of theft or loss.
The update is being deployed via Google Play Services, meaning it doesnโt require a full OS update to reach users. This ensures a faster, more universal rollout across different Android models and manufacturers.
What Users Should Know
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Update Version: Google Play Services 25.14
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Trigger: Phone locked and unused for 72 hours
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Effect: Device reboots into BFU state
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Applies To: Android phones and tablets (not Wear OS)
This update is especially significant for users concerned with privacy and enterprise device security, adding another layer of protection to sensitive data โ even when the device is idle.
