Android devices will now auto-reboot after 72 hours of inactivity, enhancing data security by entering a locked, encrypted state.
If you’ve ever forgotten your Android phone in a drawer for a few days, don’t be surprised if it restarts itself next time. Google is quietly rolling out a security-focused feature that will automatically reboot Android phones and tablets after 72 hours of inactivity—assuming the device remains locked that whole time.
This new move, spotted in the latest Google Play Services update (version 25.14), is all about tightening security. The idea? If your phone hasn’t been unlocked in three days, it could be at risk—so a system-triggered restart kicks in.
Once the phone reboots, it enters what's called the “Before First Unlock” state (BFU). In plain English: your data is still encrypted, and even if someone has your phone, they won’t be able to access it unless they know your PIN, password, or pattern. Fingerprint and face unlock? Disabled until you manually log in.
This makes it much harder for unauthorized users—or even forensic tools—to dig through your device.
Tech security researcher Mishaal Rahman was among the first to break the news. On X (formerly Twitter):
Not for Every Device
Not all Android gadgets will be affected. The auto-reboot is coming to phones and tablets, but not to Android Auto, Android TV, or Wear OS smartwatches.
Also, don’t expect an obvious pop-up or countdown. The process is quiet. You’ll likely only notice it happened when you're prompted for your full passcode instead of a biometric scan.
This update places Android in line with a growing trend in mobile OS security. Apple introduced something similar last year: iPhones running iOS 18.1 reboot automatically if they go unused for four days. It’s all part of a broader effort by tech companies to secure personal data against evolving digital threats.
No exact date has been announced for when the feature will be available across all devices, but if your phone updates Google Play Services in the coming weeks—you might just see it in action.
