Galaxy Phones Could Get Native App Lock in One UI 9.5

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Google has been working on a native App Lock feature for Android for quite some time, and it was expected to debut with Android 17 (One UI 9). However, last month, the stable Android 17 came without the feature, disappointing users. The good news is that App Lock is not dead. In fact, Google is improving it behind the scenes, raising hopes that it could arrive with Android 17 QPR2 and eventually make its way to Samsung’s One UI 9.5.

Google continues work on Android’s native app lock

While digging through the latest Android 17 QPR1 Beta 6 build, the folks over at Android Authority found new code strings for App Lock. This suggests that Google is still working on the feature instead of abandoning it. It’s worth mentioning that App Lock surfaced in Android Canary 2603, but the company removed it from subsequent Canary releases.

A string suggests that users will be able to add App Lock to multiple apps at once in Settings. In Canary 2603, App Lock could only be enabled for one app at a time through the Pixel Launcher. This made the setup method less convenient.

Another code string suggests Google may offer a biometrics-only option for App Lock. The description reads, “Quickly add and manage app lock anytime. For extra security, you can also limit access to your apps by requiring only biometrics.” In Canary 2603, the company introduced two ways to unlock a locked app: PIN or fingerprint. It looks like the user will be able to disable PIN-based unlocking.

Note that App Lock is currently hidden in the Android 17 QPR1 Beta 6 code (not available to users). This suggests the feature is unlikely to arrive with stable QPR1. If development continues, the feature could debut in Android 17 QPR2. This version could serve as the base for One UI 9.5, expected to launch with the Galaxy S27 series in early 2027. In other words, Samsung may bring App Lock for Galaxy phones in One UI 9.5.

Written by

Binay Konwar

Binay Konwar started his blogging journey in 2014 and has since written plenty of tech articles. At present, he is working as a News Writer at SammyGuru, covering everything about Samsung. He holds a Master's degree in Mathematics, but his real passion lies in tech and writing. In his free time, he enjoys playing chess and watching movies.

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