Google has released a new update to its Play Services, bringing significant security enhancements that make your Android device safer against recent attacks. The update, version 25.14 (2025-04-14), includes an “inactivity reboot” feature that automatically restarts your phone after three consecutive days of inactivity. This returns your device to its original state, requiring a physical code entry to start it up again.
The new security measure is designed to prevent zero-day exploits and comes at a time when Android devices are vulnerable to similar attacks as iPhones. Apple added this feature to its devices last year, causing frustration for law enforcement agencies. Google’s update aims to fill the gap in security.
The update applies only to phones and does not require any specific user settings changes or link to specific Android OS versions. However, it will roll out over the next few weeks, so you can check your device’s Play Services version using the following steps:
1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap “Apps & notifications” and see all apps.
3. Tap “Google Play services.”
4. Tap “Update or Install.”
This update may not receive as much attention as OS upgrades and security updates, but it is a critical enhancement that brings your Android device closer to iPhone-level security.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/zakdoffman/2025/04/15/google-just-made-your-android-phone-more-like-an-iphone