Google's smart lock seems to be having a new addition to its features, and diminishing the number of times users need to enter passcodes in their devices. In the new update for the Android Lollipop, there is an extra unlock option that works with most Android devices' motion sensors.
Dubbed the "on-body detection," this new smart feature uses the device's on-board accelerometer to check if the device is in usage and keeps it unlocked, for example if the smartphone is in the pocket or in the user's hand. If the smart auto lock feature is on, the device will automatically lock once it detects it is in an even position.
Google hopes that this smart detection autolock and unlock feature will enable the phone itself to secure data by locking itself when it is accidentally left behind, stolen, or inadvertently set aside. However, Google reminds users be careful and attentive when using this new smart lock feature, as it can't detect who is using or carrying the phone.
When turning this new smart lock feature on, a display message reads, "If you unlock your device and hand it to someone else, your device also stays unlocked as long as the other person continues to hold or carry it."
The smart lock option for Android devices was first rolled out as one of the updates for the Android 5.0 Lollipop. The options in the smart lock feature for the first Lollipop update allow phone users to set trusted places, like at home or at work, and paired Wi-Fi or Bluetooth devices, like a computer or the car's stereo. Once the device is within these zones, the phone remains unlocked until the user manually locks it again.
The smart lock feature can also recognize faces and set the trusted persons option, remaining unlocked when it detects a trusted face.
