Google's new Trusted Voice unlock feature is now rolling out to some Android users

[Justin Kahn]

Last week, a new update arrived for the Android Google app with voice recognition nickname functionality, along with some hints at a few others that were still on the way. Based on reports, it appeared as though there would be a new way to unlock our Android devices coming soon and now some users are starting to see the new unlock feature come available on their devices

Available from the Smart Lock settings, the new Trusted Voice feature allows users to access their devices by simply saying “OK Google.” Now as you can imagine and as Google warns, the voice recognition unlock is more in-line with facial recognition, and isn’t as secure (or as reliable) as the typical PIN option or custom swipe pattern entry already found on our devices.

Reports suggest the new feature is now rolling out, but it appears to be a slow one with only certain Android devices seeing the new Trusted Voice option so far. There are no specific timelines available but most users should start to see it soon.

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https://www.techspot.com/news/60347-google-new-trusted-voice-unlock-feature-now-rolling.html

 

[hahahanoobs]

I assume if you're using "OK Google" to unlock your phone, you'll lose the ability to use "OK Google" on your lock screen to give commands.

 

[Kibaruk]

I assume if you're using "OK Google" to unlock your phone, you'll lose the ability to use "OK Google" on your lock screen to give commands.

Why? It says unlock, nothing more, once it's unlocked you should be good to go.

 

[hahahanoobs]

Why? It says unlock, nothing more, once it's unlocked you should be good to go.

Because currently "OK Google" works on any screen on my phone including the lock screen (since Android 4.4.2 update), but it doesn't unlock my phone. It goes back to locked after I'm done giving it commands (ie: I want to know the weather). If "OK Google" has two functions, how will it know if I want to know the weather or I want my phone unlocked?

 

[Kibaruk]

Because programming. It's like magic, but logic.

 

[Nima304]

Just like Star Trek. This would be awesome to use ("Computer, activate administrator access, authorization Nima four five alpha), but as the article said and as seen a few times in Star Trek, anyone with a voice recorder could hijack this system.