Android is introducing new security and compliance features in Android 14 to enhance the protection of work devices. These features aim to provide even stronger security for businesses using the Android platform.

One of the new features is the six-digit PIN unlock. The default lock screen PIN number has been increased from four digits to six digits. By adding just two digits to unlock the device, the number of possible PIN combinations increases from 10,000 to 1 million. This increase in complexity reduces the risk of unauthorized access to the device.

Another feature is the credential manager controls. These controls are available for both Work Profile and fully managed devices, allowing IT administrators to enable only trusted credential managers. This gives organizations more control over their data and helps protect sensitive business credentials from unauthorized access.

In addition, IT administrators can now configure mobile connectivity according to their risk model with the 2G connectivity controls. This allows them to protect managed devices from 2G traffic interception, person-in-the-middle attacks, and other vulnerabilities specific to the 2G network. For example, administrators can temporarily disable 2G radios when employees are traveling to high-risk locations or disable 2G by default.

To meet the National Information Assurance Partnership (NIAP) standards, Android has introduced new policy logs and admin controls for managed Ultra-wide band (UWB). These UWB logs enable organizations to comply with the security standards set for this year.

For more information on Android’s security and compliance efforts, the latest version of the Android Security Paper provides a comprehensive overview. It includes details about Android’s security and management APIs, the multi-layered approach to security, the types of Zero Trust signals available, Google Play Protect’s malware defense, and Android’s security certifications.

Android continues to prioritize security in delivering a secure mobile platform for businesses. With these new security and compliance features, Android 14 offers improved protection for work devices, giving organizations more control and peace of mind when it comes to their data and sensitive business information.