Google is reimagining the functionality of Quick Settings tiles on locked devices.

0 1 minute read

Joe Maring / Android Authority

Key Points:

Android 17 QPR 1 Beta 5’s code suggests that Google is considering a requirement to unlock devices for all Quick Settings functionalities, except for the Flashlight.
The latest build of Android Canary, version 2608, hints at a compromise, where only specific toggles—like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Mobile Data, and Airplane Mode—will require unlocking.
This adjustment appears to aim at preventing unauthorized users from disabling tracking features on stolen devices while retaining access to lower-risk functions like the flashlight and auto-rotate on the lock screen.

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Here are notable code segments from Android 17 QPR 1 Beta 5:

Code

To prevent unauthorized changes, you must unlock your device to use any Quick Settings tile except the Flashlight

In comparison, here are updated code segments from Android Canary 2608:

Code

To prevent unauthorized changes, you must unlock your device to use Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Mobile Data, and Airplane Mode.

As illustrated, when the device is locked, users will be restricted from toggling Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Mobile Data, and Airplane Mode via the Quick Settings. This aims to secure settings commonly exploited by thieves to disable tracking features on stolen phones. However, lower-risk functionalities like the flashlight, auto-rotate, and battery saver are still expected to be operational from the lock screen.

It is important to note that this modification is not yet active in Android Canary 2608. We will provide updates as more information becomes available.

⚠️ An APK teardown can reveal potential future features based on ongoing code development. However, there is no guarantee that these anticipated features will appear in public releases.

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