Google is enhancing its defenses against malware with the introduction of a new feature designed to identify increasingly sophisticated threats. The updated Google Play Protect service now includes a capability known as live threat detection, which actively monitors app behavior on devices to detect potentially harmful applications. This proactive approach alerts users in real-time if any suspicious activity is detected.
Enhanced Malware Detection
Initially unveiled at Google I/O earlier this year, this feature is currently available for Pixel 6 and newer models. In the coming months, it will extend to a range of non-Pixel Android devices from manufacturers such as Lenovo, OnePlus, Nothing, and Oppo.
Live threat detection specifically targets malware that cleverly conceals its malicious intent. Unlike traditional methods that only scan apps for harmful code upon installation, this updated Play Protect continuously evaluates app behavior even after installation. This ongoing scrutiny allows it to identify malware that may remain dormant initially but later engages in harmful activities.
Utilizing an Android privacy infrastructure known as Private Compute Core, this detection process ensures that user data remains secure. Users will receive immediate alerts, empowering them to take necessary actions if any threats are identified.
New Scam Call Detection Feature
In addition to the malware detection enhancements, Google is also introducing a scam call detection feature. This tool employs on-device artificial intelligence to analyze incoming phone calls for signs of potential scams. By recognizing suspicious conversational patterns or typical scam requests, the system can flag these calls, prompting users to consider ending the conversation.
Currently, this feature is accessible only to participants in the Phone by Google app’s beta program, specifically for Pixel 6 and later devices. As of this morning, the beta program appears to be at capacity, but Google plans to roll out this functionality to a broader array of Android phones in the future.
