Android Device With Fingerprint Reader Often Locked

Android devices that have a fingerprint reader are more locked than devices that do not offer this option. This was reported in the published today Google Android Security annual report ( pdf ). The use of screen lock helps according to Google both privacy and security.

However, research shows that many users set a screen lock because they find it difficult. With the launch of Android 5.0, users can, however, choose the "Smart Lock" option, in which a device remains unlocked until it is held by the user. This can be determined on the basis of various items such as Bluetooth, on-body detection 'and a trusted location. This reduces the number of times a user must manually unlock his device.

Since Android 6.0 fingerprint readers are supported, however, and this has a positive effect on the use of screen lock. Users can now unlock your phone using just their fingerprint. From Google figures show that the use of screen lock is more common on devices with a fingerprint reader. Is set at 55.8% of the Nexus 5 and Nexus 6 devices screen lock. With Nexus and Nexus 5X- 6P devices, which have a fingerprint reader, this is 91.5%. With other Android devices that have screen lock is being used on a fingerprint reader.

Google Makes Encryption In Android Lollipop Not Required

Late last year announced the first-ever Google Android version that data on smartphones and tablets standard would encrypt, but now the Internet giant seems this measure does not oblige manufacturers.Android 5.0, better known as Lollipop, would "encryption by default" application.

Once users would turn on their device for the first time would be automatic data encryption. A measure that Google criticized investigators came to be, because this would complicate the fight against crime and terrorism. Ars Technica discovered that several Lollipop sets, including demonstration copies of the Samsung Galaxy S6 this week at the Mobile World Congress Barcelona can be seen, no default encryption application.

It also showed that Google earlier this year the guidelines for manufacturers regarding the proper implementation of Lollipop had adjusted devices. The document dated 11 January ( pdf ) is full-disk encryption is highly recommended, but not required.Google however, that the measure is likely to be required somewhere in future versions. One possible reason to drop the requirement is the load for the device, which would slow down by the continuous encryption. Whether this is the real reason is unknown. Namely Google has not yet written a comment.