What is Advanced Protection on Android?

Advanced Protection in Android 16 combines multiple security settings acrosssix categories into one switch. Turning it on will lock certain features so they can't be disabled individually, and it activates more protections.

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Here's what it does, specifically, on your device, according to Google:

Apps

• Google Play Protect : Always-on malware scanning that cannot be turned off.
• Unknown apps: Blocks installs from outside Google Play, including sideloading.
• Memory Tagging Extension (MTE): On supported devices, automatically enabled to stop memory corruption.

Device safety

• Theft detection lock: Locks your phone after a suspicious motion.
• Offline device lock: Locks automatically when the phone goes offline.
• Inactivity reboot: Reboots after 72 hours locked.

Messages

• Spam and scam protection: Filters and flags harmful texts.
• Unsafe links: Warns about suspicious links from unknown senders.

Network

• 2G network protection: Prevents your phone from connecting to insecure 2G networks (on supported devices).

Phone

• Caller ID and spam: Identifies suspect calls before you answer.
• Automatic Call Screen : In supported regions, Google's AI screens and declines spam calls automatically.

Web

• Safe browsing : Blocks phishing and malicious websites.
• Chrome HTTPS enforcement : Forces HTTPS whenever possible.
• JavaScript protections: Disables Chrome's JavaScript optimizer to reduce attack risks.

Why isn't Advanced Protection enabled by default?

Some aspects, such as blocking sideloaded apps or automatically screening calls, may cause issues for certain users. So, it's optional, even though it offers stronger security.

Does Advanced Protection block sideloaded apps?

Yes. It blocks installations from unknown sources -- so you can't sideload apps outside the Play Store while it's enabled.

Will Advanced Protection slow down my phone or make it harder to use?

You won't notice much difference. The biggest trade-offs are losing the ability to sideload apps and occasional issues with spam and call screening.

What exactly happens if my phone is stolen?

If your phone is stolen, Advanced Protection is helpful. It includes Theft Detection Lock, which automatically locks your phone if it's grabbed from your hand or moved suddenly. It also has Offline Device Lock, which locks the device when it loses connection, and Inactivity Reboot, which forces a reboot if the phone stays locked for 72 hours.

Do I need Google Account Advanced Protection?

Separate from the device toggle,Google Account Advanced Protection secures your online account (Gmail, Drive, Docs, and more).

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It's an opt-in program that requires stronger sign-in methods, such as passkeys or physical security keys, and limits third-party access to your data. Unlike Android's Advanced Protection, which focuses on your phone and local data, this program protects your online account and data in the cloud. For the highest level of security, especially if you're at high risk, both are worth enabling.