Mashable: Google Drive is reportedly working on a new feature for Android devices aimed at enhancing security during app access, as indicated by a recent report. This feature, identified as Privacy Screen, was uncovered through an APK teardown of the Android version of the app.

Google Drive for Android Reportedly Developing Privacy Screen Feature for Enhanced Security

For more news visit https://t.co/98KV4yIruC#2YoDoINDIA #GoogleDrive #Google pic.twitter.com/vff3BYoZq2 — 2YoDoINDIA News Network (@2yodoindia) November 28, 2024

It has been available on the iOS version of the cloud storage service since 2020 and is now anticipated to be introduced to Android users.

According to a report from Android Authority, the development of the Privacy Screen feature has been confirmed through the discovery of code strings in the Google Drive for Android app version 2-24-467-3. It is expected to function similarly to its iOS equivalent, necessitating user authentication prior to granting access to the application.

One of the code strings states: When Privacy Screen is activated, you will be prompted to verify your identity when launching this app.

However, there are certain limitations that align with the iOS version. The code references indicate that even with the feature enabled, shared data may still be accessible via the internet browser of other applications. Additionally, the Privacy Screen may not safeguard notifications and other system functionalities.

The iOS version of this feature also has various restrictions regarding protection, including files shared with the Files app, photos shared with the Photos app, certain Siri functionalities, and scenarios where the app is uninstalled.

Google Drive on Android could get a Privacy Screen similar to iPhone, putting a biometric lock on the app. https://t.co/VWtVxnFkRb — Tushar Mehta (@thetymonbay) November 27, 2024

Recently, Google introduced an enhanced Drive file picker for Android devices, allowing users to more easily access recently viewed items on Google Drive. Furthermore, it enables quick viewing of items shared within drives, My Drive, and other storage locations.