NEW YORK, April 16 -- Apple did it with iOS, now it's Google's turn to integrate a new security feature in Android that automatically restarts the smartphone after a certain period of inactivity. The aim is to prevent a thief or any unauthorised person holding the device from accessing sensitive data.

According to Android Authority, Google is planning to build a new security feature into Android 16 very soon, in the form of an automatic reboot of the smartphone after three consecutive days without unlocking. This measure aims to protect user data in case of theft or simply unauthorised access.

This option, spotted in the Google Play services code (version 25.11.34), would be part of an "Advanced Protection Mode" of the future Android 16...