New Galaxy Theft Protection Tools in One UI 7 Include AI Motion Detection, Remote Lock, and Biometric Delays to Combat Rising Phone Thefts
Samsung has unveiled a robust suite of anti-theft features for its Galaxy smartphones as part of the upcoming One UI 7 update, marking a major step forward in mobile security amid a global rise in smartphone theft. The update introduces a layered defense system that leverages AI-powered theft detection, remote locking capabilities, and biometric protection — building on recent critical security patches already deployed for Galaxy users.
At the heart of the update is the Theft Detection Lock, a feature for Galaxy devices running Android 10 or higher. It uses artificial intelligence to recognize sudden movements—such as a phone being snatched—and instantly locks the screen to prevent unauthorized access. This works seamlessly with Android’s Offline Device Lock, which triggers a screen lock even without network connectivity after multiple failed unlock attempts. These capabilities expand upon Google’s broader AI-based security improvements across the Android ecosystem.
Samsung also introduced a Remote Lock feature that allows users to lock their stolen or compromised phone using just their phone number and a verification code. This adds a vital recovery path even when access to traditional device management tools is unavailable.
Another key feature is Identity Check, which requires biometric authentication before allowing critical settings changes when the phone is used in unfamiliar locations. However, users can define “Safe Places” — such as home or work — where these requirements are relaxed, preserving convenience while enhancing protection.
Security Delay is another major addition, introducing a mandatory one-hour waiting period before anyone can reset biometric credentials like fingerprints or facial recognition. This gives rightful owners critical time to lock the phone remotely and prevent misuse. This strategy reflects similar moves by other major manufacturers, such as Apple’s Stolen Device Protection introduced earlier.
Together, these measures form a multi-layered theft protection architecture designed to deter increasingly sophisticated urban smartphone thefts. The enhancements are particularly relevant for markets like the United Kingdom, where over 40 million Galaxy users recently received security upgrades.
To enable these features, users can go to Settings > Security and Privacy > Lost Device Protection > Theft Protection. Samsung emphasizes that these functions are intended to work synergistically, offering robust protection without compromising legitimate usability.
By integrating AI-driven motion recognition, offline security protocols, remote access tools, and biometric restrictions, Samsung’s One UI 7 positions Galaxy phones as among the most secure Android devices available — aligning with recent FBI and NSA guidelines for smartphone protection.