- Android 16 adds the identity verification function to more Android phones
- The function, which places a biometric block in the key configuration, currently only exists on Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy Devices
- Android 16 is expected to be launched in the second quarter of 2025
Android 16 will bring a new security function to a broader range of phones, following the prior addition of the tool to Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel Phones.
The identity verification, which requires biometric authentication to access the configuration and key options, was detected in a OnePlus 13 that executes a beta construction of Android 16 by Android Authority.
The identity verification function places a biometric block in the key configuration of your phone, which makes it difficult for other people to change the essential options.
Although less drastic use cases are possible, identity blocking is especially useful if your phone is stolen, since thieves would generally have no access to their fingerprint or facial exploration (although some facial recognition tools can be fooled with an image).
The feature was released for the first time to Google Pixel phones in December 2025, while Samsung has incorporated the function into an UI 7, first seen in the Galaxy S25 series launched in February.
As we report previously, the function works effectively to the iPhone Apple stolen device protection tool.
If you ask me, identity verification is felt as a natural extension of the function of detection of theft added with Android 15.
As we report previously, the robbery detection block uses a combination of AI, gyometer measurements and movement detection to determine if your phone has been stolen and closing thieves.
To my eye, these increasingly robust security measures demonstrate Google’s awareness about the fact that stealing your phone is a history of two parts these days, as expensive as it is to replace the hardware, obtaining your personal information stolen within the phone can lead to much more serious complications such as identity theft and credit card fraud.
I am glad to see Android 16 that leads this function to more devices: the security characteristics should not be kept exclusive to a brand provided that the general base of Android hardware can support them, and although Samsung is known for its narrow association with Google in the new Android features, more security for more people is always the correct movement.
What do you think of this new identity verification function? Is it something you would use? Let us know in the comments below and be sure to consult our guide of the best Android phones before the launch of Android 16 at the end of this year.
