Android 16 introduces Advanced Protection, a robust security suite that consolidates multiple defenses against theft, scams, malware, and network threats into a single toggle, ideal for high-risk users like journalists or activists.
The feature is perfect for users at high risk, such as journalists or activists. It blocks sideloading, keeps 2G and WEP Wi-Fi, which are insecure, disabled, boosts Google Play Protect, and, at the same time, protects against memory bugs in applications, all while being tamper-proof. To enable it, only a few steps are required on supported devices like the Pixel 6+ or Samsung Galaxy S22+, as long as your phone is running Android 16.
Prerequisites for Activation
Make sure your device is running Android 16 first, since the Advanced Protection feature is only available for this version and later quarterly updates. Navigate to Settings > System > System Update (or Software Update on some devices), then apply the available patches. A screen lock, such as a PIN, pattern, or biometrics, must already be set as the basis for these heightened measures.
The list of supported devices includes Google Pixel smartphones from the 6 series and the upcoming One UI 8 rollout from Samsung, which will eventually help the Galaxy flagships. Additionally, an API is the means by which third-party vendors can connect to the system and, thus, ensure the same level of security for their apps as in the case of Chrome and Messages.
Step-by-Step Activation Guide
Follow these straightforward steps to enable Advanced Protection effortlessly:
The process takes under a minute and instantly applies layers like scam detection in Phone by Google and web safeguards.
Key Security Enhancements
Once activated, Advanced Protection enforces defense-in-depth across categories.
Network Protection: Disables 2G (only in case of emergencies) and blocks WEP Wi-Fi. In the future, the phone will automatically prevent reconnecting to insecure networks.
App and Device Safeguards: No unknown apps will be installed, malware will be detected through Play Protect scanning, and the device will be rebooted after 3 days of inactivity to prevent theft.
Additional Features: Comes with memory tagging for bug protection, spam blocking in Messages, upcoming USB guards, and on-device AI scam detection.
Benefits and Considerations
This mode unifies controls for Google apps and plans third-party expansion, making security seamless without manual tweaks. Users considered high-risk receive intrusion logging, which can be used for forensic purposes, while regular users are protected in the event of a data breach, since leaks of billions of records are becoming more common. Keep in mind some possible drawbacks, such as limited sideloading, but turning off is very easy through the same switch.
By all means, use it together with passkeys and Private Space for confidential information. Google is still implementing expansions, so it is very easy to adapt to evolving threats.
