Just imagine the convenience of unlocking your Android phone just because your smartwatch is nearby. It seems that Google is working to implement this seamless integration between Android smartphones and WearOS smartwatches. It will work just like the current implementation of Smart Lock. However, rather than using a less secure method like detecting whether the device is in the pocket or not, the OS will check if your WearOS device is nearby. No need to type in a PIN or scan your fingerprint.
WearOS and Android Phones To Get a New Level of Integration
In a recent beta version of Google Play Services (25.29.31), Android Authority found clues about an update to a security tool called Identity Check. Curiously, this tool arrived with Android 15. It asks for your fingerprint or password if you’re not in a safe place like home or work. But the new update hints that your phone might trust your smartwatch. If the watch is closed and already unlocked, the phone could let you in without asking for anything else. It’s an extra addition that will make usage more convenient in certain conditions.
It doesn’t mean passwords or fingerprints are going away. However, the feature could mean you won’t need to use them as often. That would make unlocking your phone less of a hassle while still keeping things secure. In any case, don’t hold your breath for it just yet. There is no forecast for the release of such a feature. Also, it might never come out, as the report suggests that Google is only testing this at this point. It’s convenient, but there is also a cost of security if someone grabs your phone and watches without your consent.
We’ll have to wait to see what happens. But if this feature gets released, it could be one of those small changes that makes a big difference — just don’t misplace both your phone and watch at the same time. Perhaps, we will hear more about this in the future. Google could even use this as a feature of the upcoming Pixel Watch 4.
