Android 17 tests a lock on Pixel Quick Settings
The option, off by default, would force owners to unlock their Pixel before cutting Wi-Fi, mobile data, Bluetooth or Airplane mode.
Google is testing a security option in Android 17 that stops anyone from changing a Pixel’s connections while the phone is locked. It appears in build 2609 of Android Canary, the development channel the company uses to try out upcoming changes.
Called "Require unlock for Quick Settings", the option is off by default and sits in Settings > Security & privacy > Device unlock. Once switched on, it forces the owner to unlock the Pixel before touching Wi-Fi, mobile data, Bluetooth or Airplane mode. Google leaves out the shortcuts people may need quickly, such as the flashlight and the alarm.
Until now, only location required an unlock from the Quick Settings panel, so a thief could cut the phone’s connections and make it harder to track. Most other Android manufacturers already offer a similar option.
Build 2609 is available now on recent Pixel phones. Google has removed the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro from the list of compatible devices, while the Pixel 9a will receive it later and the Pixel 11 will wait for the next build. Android Canary builds are aimed at developers and are less stable than betas.
