Google Identity Check Expands to More Devices with Android 16

Smartphones are becoming prime targets for thieves—not just for the hardware, but for the sensitive financial data stored on them. To counter this, Google introduced several anti-theft features, including one called Identity Check, which prevents access to sensitive apps even if a thief knows your phone’s passcode.

Currently available only on Pixel and Samsung Galaxy devices, Identity Check is set to expand to more smartphones with the launch of Android 16.

Identity Check was first rolled out in December 2024 for Pixel devices, and later through One UI 7 for Samsung phones. Though other brands haven’t officially announced support, the feature was spotted on the OnePlus 13 running the Android 16 beta. You can find it under:
Settings > Google > Theft Protection.

How It Works

When enabled, Identity Check requires biometric authentication—like a fingerprint or face scan—before you can access sensitive data or change security settings. Knowing the PIN or password isn’t enough, especially outside your trusted locations.

To implement this, Google had to modify the biometric prompt system to remove PIN/password fallback options. Since this change affects a part of Android that can’t be updated independently, it requires a full OS update, starting with Android 15 QPR1.

Samsung incorporated the feature into its One UI 7 update without waiting for QPR1, but most other manufacturers—like OnePlus and Xiaomi—are expected to include it in their Android 16 releases, which bundle all the needed system changes.

What to Expect with Android 16

If your phone isn’t made by Google or Samsung, look for Identity Check after updating to Android 16. As long as your device supports Class 3 (secure) biometrics, it should be compatible. Keep in mind, it likely won’t be enabled by default, so you’ll need to turn it on manually in the settings.