With the recent launch of Android 16, Google has introduced an innovative “Advanced Protection” mode designed to enhance security on Android devices. This mode effectively prevents unauthorized app installations, restricts USB access, and disables insecure connections, thereby safeguarding users against potential data breaches and malware threats. Initially, Google outlined how system applications could utilize this feature to activate necessary lockdown measures, while also indicating that third-party applications could tap into this functionality. Now, Google seems to be in the process of refining this feature by testing a new interface that will enable users to see which applications are aware of the Advanced Protection status.
New Interface for Enhanced Transparency
Recent insights reveal that Google is developing an option within the Settings > Security and privacy > Advanced protection menu, which will display a comprehensive list of applications capable of verifying whether the Advanced Protection feature is enabled. This functionality was hinted at in the code accompanying version 25.33.32 beta of Google Play Services, although it has yet to be made publicly available. Nevertheless, some users have managed to activate this feature through exploratory means.
The new interface, located at the bottom of the Advanced Protection settings page, will unveil a section listing all applications that can check the status of the feature, thereby allowing them to implement their own security measures. Currently, the list predominantly includes Google’s own applications, such as Chrome, Play Store, Messages, and Phone. However, it is anticipated that third-party applications utilizing the necessary API will also be included in the future.
The absence of third-party applications in the current list may indicate that developers have not yet integrated these safeguards, or it could suggest limitations in the interface’s ability to accurately detect applications using the API, given its developmental stage. Regardless, there is an expectation that more applications will adopt these preventive measures, even though implementing such requirements is not obligatory for developers. Furthermore, since Advanced Protection is compatible with all devices running Android 16, it opens the door for other manufacturers to enhance security features within their applications. Samsung, for instance, appears to be integrating this functionality into its One UI 8.
It is important to note that while a visible list of applications is not essential for them to recognize when Advanced Protection is activated, it serves as a valuable resource for users to understand which applications have additional security features enabled. When Advanced Protection is activated, certain applications may respond by activating their own security protocols, which could restrict specific functionalities. Thus, this list could empower users with the knowledge needed to determine if they want to temporarily disable Advanced Protection to access certain features within those applications.
While this scenario may not be ideal, it ultimately provides users with greater insight, allowing them to make informed decisions regarding the use of Advanced Protection on their devices.
⚠️ An APK teardown is a method used to anticipate potential features that may be introduced in a service based on preliminary code. However, it is essential to keep in mind that not all predicted features may reach public release.
