Google Drive Adds Privacy Screen for Android

Indeed, there have been reports that Google Drive for Android is working on a Privacy Screen feature that would demand identification before allowing users to open the app. It is anticipated that this functionality would function similarly to its iOS equivalent.

The rumour claims that Google Drive is working on a new feature for Android smartphones that would reportedly increase security when using the app. They claim to have found it as they were tearing down the Android app’s APK. The cloud storage app’s Privacy Screen feature has been accessible on the iOS version since 2020 and is now reportedly making its way to the Android version as well.

The Android Authority described the alleged Privacy Screen feature, which is reportedly under development, in a report. After an APK breakdown of the Google Drive for Android app version 2-24-467-3, code string references to the functionality were allegedly found. It is thought to function similarly to its iOS equivalent, requiring authentication before allowing the user to access the application.

Image Source: 9to5 Google

When you access this app with Privacy Screen enabled, you will be prompted to confirm that it is you.

There are, however, a few restrictions that are consistent with the app’s iOS version. According to the code references, the shared data could still be accessible through other programs’ web browsers even after it has been activated. Furthermore, alerts and other system functions could not be protected by the Privacy Screen feature.

When it comes to safety, this feature on Google Drive for iOS has a number of additional restrictions. These include files shared with the Files app, photographs shared with the photographs app, certain Siri functionalities, and if the program is removed.

Recently, Google released an enhanced Drive file picker for Android smartphones. The business claims that customers will find it easier to retrieve recently seen things on Google Drive. They will also be able to see shared files inside disks, My Drive, and other storage sites with ease.

The earlier upgrade has already been made available to Rapid Release domains and will begin rolling out to Scheduled Release domains on December 2.

Other methods to safeguard your Google Drive files include the following:

1. Safe/Secure folder

Use a PIN to restrict access and hide files in your Safe folder. Android 8.0 and later can use this functionality.

2. Data Classification

Sort and label information so that only those with permission may access the appropriate information.

3. Shared Settings

4. Go to the sharing options, click the down arrow next to the person’s name, and choose “Remove access” to take away their access.

       i. The Share dialog box’s “Viewers and commenters can download, print, and copy” option should be disabled.

          ii. A person’s file access should have an expiration date set.