If your Android smartphone remains locked and unused for three straight days, it will now reboot automatically—thanks to a newly introduced security feature by Google.

The aim? To complicate access for thieves and other malicious entities to your information or to resell pilfered devices. By rebooting automatically after prolonged inactivity, the phone transitions into a more secure mode that greatly restricts unauthorized access.

This feature was unveiled in the recent update of Google Play services (version 25.14), which was distributed earlier this week. As initially reported by TechCrunch, the update contains a setting in Security and Privacy that activates this automatic reboot capability.

Per the update notes, the feature is characterized as “an optional future security feature, which will automatically restart your device if it remains locked for 3 consecutive days.” Although it might appear to be a minor adjustment, it carries significant implications for device security.

Here’s its importance: When a device is unlocked, certain encrypted information is temporarily decrypted, making it easier to access. This is something that law enforcement and forensic experts have exploited in the past. However, when a gadget is restarted or turned off and switched back on, it returns to a “Before First Unlock” (BFU) condition. In this condition, all data stays fully encrypted and is only retrievable once the user inputs their password.

Apple introduced a comparable function named “inactivity reboot” with iOS 18, aimed at safeguarding user information in case of theft or loss. Google is now adopting a similar strategy, underscoring the significance of this security measure.

By enforcing a reboot after three days of inactivity, Android devices will automatically revert to the BFU state, making it exceedingly tougher to hack or resell. This action not only secures user data but also assists in deterring smartphone theft by lowering the value of stolen devices on the black market.

Since the majority of individuals interact with their phones daily, the three-day timeframe offers a balance between convenience and security—ensuring that legitimate users are not disturbed while still providing strong protection against unauthorized access.