"Android to Automatically Reboot Your Phone After Three Days of Inactivity: Report"

Android is introducing a new optional security feature that will automatically reboot devices if they remain locked for three consecutive days, according to a report by 9to5Google. This update, delivered through the upcoming Google Play services version 25.14, aims to enhance security by forcing devices into a 'Before First Unlock (BFU)' state, requiring a PIN or pattern to unlock instead of relying on biometrics. 

The report mentions that Google's release notes indicate this auto-reboot feature will be optional once fully implemented, addressing concerns from users who rely on devices that need to run continuously, such as tablets. After a reboot, the device will not restart again unless it is unlocked and relocked for another 72-hour period. This feature will only apply to phones and tablets, excluding Wear OS, Android TV, and Android Auto. Unlike GrapheneOS, which allows users to set custom reboot timers (ranging from 10 minutes to 72 hours), Google's version will not offer adjustable settings. 

This move follows a similar security measure introduced by Apple in iOS 18, which initially set a seven-day threshold before reducing it to three days in a later update. Google's approach aligns with the goal of preventing prolonged unauthorized access to locked devices. The update is being rolled out gradually through Google Play services, meaning most Android devices will receive it without requiring a full operating system upgrade.