New Update Makes Galaxy Phones Harder to Steal

Samsung has begun expanding its anti-theft technology suite through the new One UI 7 update, rolling out security features across a wider range of Galaxy smartphones. This strategic move comes in response to increasing incidents of phone theft globally.

The South Korean electronics company issued a public advisory urging Galaxy device users to enable the latest protection tools offered in the software update. The enhanced features build on Android-based safeguards and are now accessible on several devices beyond the flagship Galaxy S25 series.

Originally introduced with the Galaxy S25, the Theft Protection suite now covers the Galaxy S24, S23, S22, Z Fold 6, Z Flip 6, Z Fold 5, and Z Flip 5. Samsung confirmed additional models will receive the update by the end of 2025.

The update includes a combination of existing and new security layers. Existing tools such as Theft Detection Lock, Offline Device Lock, and Remote Lock continue to be central to the suite. The latest additions include Identity Check and Security Delay.

Identity Check requires biometric verification when users attempt to change critical settings from an unfamiliar location. This aims to prevent unauthorized access, even when the device PIN is exposed. Meanwhile, Security Delay introduces a one-hour buffer when resetting biometric data, giving users a window to lock the device remotely.

Samsung stated these tools are particularly effective in theft scenarios where stolen devices are immediately taken offline or tampered with. The company emphasized that the features are designed to act swiftly and independently of PIN-based access, making them harder for thieves to bypass.

The brand also partnered with the UK Home Office to raise public awareness about mobile security practices. This campaign seeks to educate users about proactive device protection and the benefits of enabling these features.