Google is stepping up phone security with a powerful new safeguard for Pixel owners: Identity Check. 
Rolling out in Android 16 QPR2 Beta 1, this feature ensures that even if a thief gets hold of your device and your lock screen code, your most sensitive data stays locked down.
Identity Check works by demanding biometric verification – fingerprint or Face Unlock – before granting access to apps that handle critical information, such as password managers, banking apps, or secure transactions. Unlike a PIN or pattern, which can be guessed or shoulder-surfed, your unique biometrics raise the barrier much higher.
To enable the feature, Pixel users can head into Settings > Security & privacy > Device unlock > Theft protection > Identity Check and toggle it on. Once active, the system enforces biometric checks any time someone tries to open supported apps outside of trusted locations. In practice, this means a thief can’t simply use your passcode to pull passwords, personal files, or financial details.
Importantly, Pixel’s modern Face Unlock (available on Pixel 8 and newer) carries a Class 3 security rating – the same level as Apple’s Face ID – meaning it’s resistant to spoofing with photos or masks. This classification makes it reliable for banking apps and digital payments. While older devices like the Pixel 6 Pro miss out on Face Unlock, they can still benefit from the fingerprint safeguards.
The Identity Check rollout coincides with Google’s latest hardware push. The Pixel 10 series – powered by the new Tensor G5 chip – is now up for pre-order with generous gift card bonuses. Buyers can choose between the standard Pixel 10, the compact yet powerful Pixel 10 Pro, or the large-screen Pixel 10 Pro XL, all bundled with Amazon gift card incentives worth up to $200.
With Android 16 expected to reach stable release in December as part of Google’s Feature Drop, Identity Check could soon become the Pixel community’s frontline defense against phone theft.
1 comment
finally some REAL security, about time Google!