App Lock Archives

AppWizard

August 17, 2026

New Pixel Phone Update Brings Awesome Level of Color Customization

The Pixel line received an update with Android 17 QPR2 Beta 3, introducing enhanced color customization options in the "Wallpaper & style" settings. Users can now use a color slider to select their preferred hue for the system theme and choose from four styles: Neutral, Soft, Bright, and Bold. The update allows users to refine their color choices and personalize their device's aesthetic. The rollout began on Friday, and users can enroll in the Android Beta Program to access these features, with the stable version expected for non-beta testers in December 2026.

Tech Optimizer

August 16, 2026

Best Android Antivirus Apps 2026: Tested and Ranked

Bitdefender Mobile Security is rated as the best antivirus app for Android in 2026, achieving a 100% detection rate, 0.5% battery drain, and unobtrusive operation. The evaluation compared five antivirus applications on a Galaxy S26 Ultra, assessing detection rates, battery drain, scan speed, and permissions. Other notable antivirus apps include Norton 360 for Mobile, which is recognized for its features; Avast Mobile Security, known for its free version; McAfee Mobile Security, which excels in scam call and text filtering; and NordVPN Threat Protection, praised for web and Wi-Fi security. Most users may not need an antivirus app due to built-in protections like Google Play Protect, which automatically scans apps. However, specific scenarios warrant the installation of an antivirus app, such as sideloading apps, receiving scam texts and calls, assisting relatives, conducting banking and shopping on mobile, and using public Wi-Fi. The top five antivirus apps tested are: 1. Bitdefender Mobile Security: 100% detection, 0.5% battery drain, 31-second scan time. 2. Norton 360 for Mobile: 99.9% detection, 0.9% battery drain, 24-second scan time. 3. Avast Mobile Security: 99.9% detection, 0.7% battery drain, 26-second scan time. 4. McAfee Mobile Security: 99.78% detection, 1.0% battery drain, 34-second scan time. 5. NordVPN Threat Protection: 95.60% detection of web threats, 0.2% battery drain. Battery consumption varied, with NordVPN being the lightest and McAfee the heaviest. Permissions requested by each app also varied significantly, with Bitdefender requiring the most extensive permissions. Users are advised to check for legitimate antivirus apps by verifying the developer, installation count, update history, lab participation, and permission requests. Free antivirus apps like Avast and AVG offer effective protection but may lack some features of paid versions. Users should be cautious of fake security apps that mimic legitimate ones. If malware is suspected, users can run scans with Google Play Protect or other anti-malware apps and follow specific steps to remove malware if detected.

AppWizard

August 16, 2026

Google Adds Sweet New Security App Lock Feature in Surprise Pixel…

Google has introduced the Android 17 QPR2 Beta 3 update, featuring a new "App Lock" option for enhanced security on Pixel devices. Users can activate App Lock by long-pressing an app icon and selecting the option from the menu. This feature requires a fingerprint, facial recognition, or a designated pattern to access locked apps, adding a layer of protection for personal data. When enabled, notifications from locked apps are hidden, and associated widgets or shortcuts are removed from view. Users can manage App Lock settings within the settings menu, allowing them to toggle the feature on or off for individual apps.

AppWizard

August 15, 2026

Here’s everything new in Android 17 QPR2 Beta 3 [Gallery]

The December release of Android 17 QPR2 is anticipated, with Beta 3 recently launched. It includes new features such as an app lock for enhanced security, a blur effect on the Pixel lock screen, customizable quick settings layout, and expanded dynamic color theming. Additionally, it introduces measures to combat call forwarding fraud, including API restrictions on call-forwarding codes and a new OS-level confirmation dialog for users. Non-call forwarding USSD requests remain unaffected. Various fixes and optimizations have also been implemented in this beta release. Compatible devices for installation include the Pixel 6a, Pixel 7 series, Pixel Tablet, and upcoming Pixel 9 series.

AppWizard

August 15, 2026

Android 17 QPR2 adds App lock to Pixel

Android 17 QPR2 Beta 3 introduces a native App Lock feature for Pixel devices, allowing users to secure applications by long-pressing them and selecting the App Lock option from the Actions menu. Accessing locked applications requires authentication via Fingerprint Unlock or PIN. Key points include that notification content will be concealed when an app is locked, widgets and shortcuts for the locked app will be removed from the home screen, and AI agents with access to the app can still access its data. Users can manage app security settings through Settings > Security & privacy > App lock. The update is scheduled for rollout in December.

AppWizard

August 14, 2026

Samsung phones could finally get proper app lock with One UI 9.5

Samsung's One UI 9.5 will introduce an app lock feature that enhances user privacy by allowing applications to be secured with a PIN or biometric authentication. Users can activate the app lock by pressing and holding an app icon in the app drawer, where a padlock icon will appear. Accessing locked apps will require biometric verification or the device's screen lock, and once locked, the app's widgets and shortcuts will be removed from the home screen, with notifications concealed. However, content from locked apps will still be accessible to other applications with prior permissions. Currently, Samsung devices offer the Secure Folder feature, which has limitations, as it creates a cloned version of the app while leaving the original accessible. The new app lock feature is similar to the one introduced in Android Canary 2608, indicating a possible influence on Samsung's development.

AppWizard

August 7, 2026

Android Canary 2608 lets you customize Quick Settings layout on Pixel

Google has released the Android Canary build version 2608, which allows users to customize the Quick Settings layout. The build, ZP11.260717.006, includes the August 2026 security patch and is compatible with various Pixel devices, including Pixel 10a, 10, 10 Pro, 10 Pro XL, 10 Pro Fold, 9a, 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold, 8a, 8, 8 Pro, 7a, 7 Pro, 7, 6a, 6 Pro, 6, Pixel Fold, and Pixel Tablet. This will be the final release for the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro, and transitioning to stable production releases will require flashing the most recent production build, which involves a data wipe. The update also features AI-generated lockscreen clocks and a returning app lock feature, accessible through Settings > Settings & privacy > Privacy > App lock. Users can customize the Quick Settings layout by tapping the pencil icon and accessing a new “Layout” tab, allowing for reordering of the Brightness bar, Tiles, and Media player with six possible combinations.

AppWizard

August 7, 2026

Google is bringing back native app lock for Android, but not for everyone yet

The latest Android Canary release introduces a new feature that allows users to lock multiple apps simultaneously through the settings menu, enhancing the app lock functionality. This feature is accessible under Settings > Security & privacy > App lock and allows users to organize locked apps in a list view. Once locked, apps will not display notification content, and their widgets and shortcuts will be hidden, although AI agents can still access their data if previously permitted. Users need to enter a PIN or use biometric authentication to access locked apps, which will also remain hidden from the recents menu. This development positions Google alongside competitors like Xiaomi and vivo, who offer similar features.

AppWizard

July 18, 2026

Google Pixel May Finally Be Adding A Feature Every Other Android Phone Has

Recent developments indicate that an app lock feature for Google Pixel phones is in the works, allowing users to lock individual apps independently and potentially use biometric verification instead of traditional PINs and passwords. Currently, Pixel devices offer a feature called Private Space, accessible through settings, which creates a secure interface for apps but requires a separate password and does not allow notifications from locked apps. Users can enhance app security using in-app encryption options available in various applications or by utilizing third-party app lock solutions from the Play Store. Additionally, the Files by Google app provides a Safe Folder feature that allows users to secure specific data with a password.

AppWizard

July 2, 2026

Google is still working on a missing Android 17 feature behind the scenes

The anticipated App Lock feature is absent in the latest Android 17 stable release, despite earlier Canary builds suggesting its inclusion. Recent findings in the Android 17 QPR1 Beta 6 indicate that Google is still developing the feature, which will allow users to lock multiple applications simultaneously through the Settings app, improving upon the previous method of securing apps one at a time. Additionally, Google is exploring a feature that restricts app access to biometric authentication only, disabling the traditional PIN-unlock option. Although App Lock is not present in the current beta, ongoing development suggests it may be introduced in the future.