This is not the first time that we have told you that device security Android It is one of the fields in which the most progress is being made, both by manufacturers as application developers. However, the mobile operating system of Google keep being him preferred white for malware creators and it's time to get our act together to continue offering a secure platform to millions of users. Android worldwide.
In this sense, Google presented Device Manager - Device administrator in Spanish –, a tool that allows Locate a device with your Google account and show its location on a map, in addition to Turn the ringer to its maximum setting to find a lost smartphoneThe main initial drawback was that their options were limited compared to other platforms such as iOS or Windows Phone or third-party solutions such as Device Finder de CyanogenMod. To shorten distances, Google has updated its tool with new possibilities.
Change your smartphone password remotely
Thanks to AndroidPolice and colleagues SmartZone We bring you the .apk file with the update of the Device administrator (corresponding to Google Play Services). Among its new features is the Ability to remotely change the device password to lock it in case of theft or loss. This function protects sensitive information against unauthorized access and complements the remote location and doorbell. Like any security tool, requires responsible use to avoid unwanted blockages.
With this improvement, there is a middle ground In case of loss: previously you could only locate the terminal or erase all its contents; now you can block it to keep the data away from prying eyes and, with any luck, recover it without damage.
Download the .apk with the new version of Device Manager
As always, we recommend the fastest option to install the application on your device AndroidDownload the .apk file to your computer using the links we've provided. Once the file is downloaded, send it as an attachment to the email account you have configured on your device. Once you receive the email, run the .apk file found there. It's a simple process and direct.
Source: AndroidPolice Via: SmartZona.
What is Android Device Manager and what can you do?
Android Device Manager (today integrated into Find my device (Google's) is the technology that enables find your mobile phone or tablet remotely. From the web or the app you can access your list of linked devices, see their location on map, consult your state (battery, last connection, WiFi network) and execute remote actions: play a sound, lock the device and show a message on screen with contact information, or erase all data if there is no possibility of recovering it.
In addition to the app and the web version, you can start the search from any browser while logged in to Google by searching "Where is my phone?"The integrated module will show you the last known point and the available actions. with just a single click.
Requirements, availability and limitations
For your mobile to appear in the tool, the option must be activated Find my device in Settings > Security. You also need to have the location services and Internet connection enabled, in addition to signing in with your Google account on the device. Some features and their availability may vary by manufacturer, the Android version and the country.
Please note that if the phone is turned off or offline, you will only see the last recorded locationIf someone erases or restores your device, it will no longer be associated with your account and you won't be able to manage it. Therefore, in the event of loss or theft, it's a good idea to act quickly and prioritize remote locking to protect your data.
Use from the web and from another mobile
If you do not have the terminal at hand, access the web version of the website from a computer. Find my device. You will see a clear interface with your devices, their last connection and a map with the approximate location. From a secondary mobile phone or a friend's, you can log in to the app, even with guest mode, to perform the same sound, blocking or deletion actions.
When you lock your device, you can sign out of Google and show a message with contact number on the screen, so whoever finds it can return it to you. If the situation requires it, the option to remote erase restores your device to factory settings, preventing access to your files, apps, and accounts.
Good practices to protect your data
In addition to remote locking, it is advisable to have measures activated such as Robust PIN, biometrics y encryption of the device, as well as automatic backups. Keep up to date Google Play Services and periodically reviews that Find my device y Share location are configured as you need. If you manage corporate mobile devices, consider solutions endpoint management (EMM) compatible with Android Enterprise.
Android Device Manager for Developers (AVD)
With the same name there is another development-oriented tool: the Device administrator to create Android Virtual Devices (AVD) that are executed in the Android Emulator from Android Studio or from Visual Studio. It serves for test apps without depending on a physical device, simulating different hardware profiles, Android versions and screen sizes.
- Key features: AVD creation and editing, duplication, start/stop, data deletion, and profile import/export.
- Requirements: have the installed Android SDK with system images and tools (Platform-Tools, Build-Tools, Emulator). On Windows, macOS, or Linux.
- Configuration: choose hardware profile, system image (Google/Play Store APIs or AOSP), hardware acceleration, memory and graphics.
- Use cases: validate compatibility by API level, try permits, sensors, simulated camera, different networks and orientations.
This AVD manager does not replace Find my device: one is for security and location of your real mobile; the other, for emulation and testing of apps in development environments.
With new remote lock and password change features, Android strengthens a critical layer of proactive security while maintaining location and deletion options. Know your requirements, limitations y best practices It allows you to react quickly and protect your data in the event of loss or theft, while the AVD manager covers the other side: ensuring apps are reliably tested before reaching your device.