- Google may be working on a native App Lock feature for Android 17 that lets users secure specific apps without the restrictions of Private Space.
- This new API allows the default launcher to lock apps, eliminating the need to use third-party app lockers.
- We spotted code for this feature in a recent Android Canary build, though it isn’t expected to officially launch until next year’s major update.
People store a lot of sensitive data on their Android phones, so it’s no wonder they are reluctant to hand them over to anyone they don’t trust. Even if you are comfortable letting a friend or family member borrow your device, you probably still have data you don’t want them to see. Locking down specific apps is a great way to protect your privacy, but the core Android OS still lacks a native way to do this, forcing many users — especially of Pixel devices — to rely on third-party tools. Fortunately, Google may finally address this in next year’s Android 17 update by adding a new App Lock feature.
Apart from Private Space, Android lacks a native way to secure apps behind your screen lock or biometrics. The issue with Private Space is that it isn’t designed for convenience. When you move an app there, it is sequestered; that works fine for apps you rarely open, but it quickly becomes a hassle for apps you open daily. Apps inside Private Space cannot be placed on your home screen, and the container itself lacks a shortcut. To access these apps, you are forced to unlock the space by opening the app drawer then and scrolling or searching every single time.