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What you need to know
Google has introduced a significant security update in its April Play Services and Store changelog for Android users. This update features an automatic reboot function for Android devices that have been locked for three consecutive days, which aims to enhance data encryption and security. Alongside this, an earlier set of updates introduced improvements in battery performance along with Google’s security patch specifically for Pixel devices.
A notable addition to Google’s suite of April System updates is a security feature intended for Android smartphones that remain idle for extended periods.
Recently, the company refreshed the April segment of its Play Services update changelog, highlighting a new privacy measure for Android devices (via 9to5Google). According to Google, this update implements an “automatic restart” feature for devices that have been locked for three consecutive days. However, details regarding the specific functionality of this feature appear to be sparse in the update’s documentation.
This feature is expected to be made available across the majority of Android devices in the coming weeks, although its rollout timeline remains to be seen.
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Further analysis indicates that the automatic reboot after three days will revert the device to a BFU state, or Before First Unlock. This mode is designed to enhance security by encrypting user data. Users encountering this state after a manual restart will see the prompt “Unlock for all features” on their lock screen.
This security enhancement is packaged with version 25.14 of the Play Services update and is accompanied by some utility upgrades for mobile devices, including enhancements to data transfer processes when setting up new devices and general bug fixes. Current estimates suggest that version 25.14 will become available to Android users over the next few weeks.
April Updates
(Image credit: Chris Wedel/Android Central)
Google’s initial rollout of the April Play Store and Services updates commenced last week, affecting various Android devices, including smartphones, TVs, and Wearables. Among the highlights of this update were enhancements to battery life, which aimed to extend usage across different Android devices, including PCs and Wear OS. The patch also focused on improving connectivity, providing increased stability within the ecosystem.
Additionally, a minor update was introduced to the “Ask a question” feature within the Play Store, which now includes functionality to provide information on videos.
Moreover, last week saw the release of the April 2025 security update for Pixel devices. Google targeted specific lingering camera issues reported by Pixel 6 and 7 series owners. The update also addressed the brightness fluctuations that many users experienced after the previous March feature drop.
With the significant update, users found that their devices displayed abnormal brightness behavior while accessing streaming services like Netflix and Prime Video. As the latest patch is gradually deployed, users experiencing these issues can expect improvements shortly.
Changing of the guard
The Pixel 9 Pro XL marks a notable return in Google’s product line, featuring the largest display in the latest family of phones at 6.8 inches. This device integrates the Gemini assistant to enhance user interaction, allowing users to easily access information and services. With a commitment to provide seven years of software updates, the Pixel 9 Pro XL promises longevity in an ever-evolving tech landscape.
Source
www.androidcentral.com