This update is a step too far.<\/p>\n
SOPA Images\/LightRocket via Getty Images<\/p>\n
Google is upgrading Android<\/a> with a security feature to better protect phones from attack. The new Advanced Protection Mode<\/a> comes with Android 16, and will block dangerous downloads, unsafe wired and wireless connections, and risky browsing. As it makes headlines, iPhone users will be asking whether they should have the same.<\/p>\n Apple users already do have a similar option. Similar, but definitely not the same. Lockdown Mode<\/a> turned up with iOS 16 and from the start was recommended only for those who thought themselves at increased risk of attack and really needed the update.<\/p>\n Apple itself says \u201cLockdown Mode is an optional, extreme protection that\u2019s designed for the very few individuals who, because of who they are or what they do, might be personally targeted by some of the most sophisticated digital threats. Most people will never be targeted by attacks of this nature.\u201d<\/p>\n ForbesGoogle Confirms Chrome Update\u2014Now Tracks All Your DevicesBy Zak Doffman<\/a><\/p>\n This is a very different level of device restriction to Android\u2019s new update. Apple warns \u201cwhen Lockdown Mode is enabled, your device won\u2019t function like it usually would. To reduce the attack surface that could potentially be exploited by highly targeted mercenary spyware, certain apps, websites and features will be strictly limited for security, and some experiences may not be available at all.\u201d<\/p>\n In reality, Google\u2019s new feature is aimed to narrow the gap to iPhone, rather than set a new bar for iPhone users to follow. In previewing the update, Android Authority<\/a> explained \u201cit\u2019s fantastic that Google is adding such safety measures for users in Android 16. One of the arguments that Apple users always brought up was how Android isn\u2019t as secure as iOS \u2014 this is a step in the right direction for Android\u2019s security.\u201d<\/p>\n Enabling Android\u2019s Advanced Protection Mode will hamper some functionality \u2014 especially app installs from outside Google\u2019s Play Store and some browsing restrictions, but it\u2019s not extreme and the lockdowns make sense.<\/p>\n