Google Tests 'Unlock with Google Account' Feature for Locked Android Phones
Google is working on a new feature that could make it easier for users to recover access to their locked Android phones without having to factory reset them.
The 'Unlock with Google Account' feature, which was discovered through an APK teardown of Android 17 QPR2 Beta 5, would allow users to regain access to their phone using their Google account instead of going through the tedious process of resetting and restoring their device from a backup.
This is not a new idea for Google, as they previously offered a similar recovery option in Android 4.4 KitKat, but removed it with Android 5.0 Lollipop. However, the company has since changed its security model, which could make this feature more secure and convenient for users.
The 'Unlock with Google Account' feature is still just an experiment at this point, and it's unclear whether or not it will be released to the public. If it does become available, it could potentially save users a lot of time and hassle when they forget their PIN or password.