Android Q Will Focus on Security and Privacy, Google Says

Android Q Will Focus on Security and Privacy, Google Says

The tenth version of Android will include finer control over privacy and improvements to Android security updates, Google announced at its I/O 2019 event

Android Q, the tenth version of the Android operating system, will include finer control over privacy, as well as improvements to security upgrades, Google announced Tuesday at the Google I/O 2019 developer conference.

According to Google, Android Q will include a new section in the settings menu called Privacy, which will give the user access to data privacy controls. Android Q will allow the user to set per-app location settings, choosing from allowing an app to always be able to access your location, or only when the app is open and in use. You’ll get a notification if an app is using your location in the background.

Android is also improving its security updates, allowing you to update without having to fully reboot your device.

"Your Android device gets regular security updates already, but you still have to wait for the release and you have to reboot when they come. We want you to get these faster," said Stephanie Cuthbertson, Google's Senior Director for Android.

Instead, Google is breaking down some Android Q components—like compatibility, security and privacy—into standalone components, allowing Google to push out critical fixes and standard upgrades individually as soon as they’re available. This new feature is called Project Mainline.

“With Android Q, we’ll update important OS components in the background, similar to the way we update apps,” Google said. “This means that you can get the latest security fixes, privacy enhancements and consistency improvements as soon as they’re available, without having to reboot your phone.”

Android Q’s OS is currently in beta, and will likely ship more widely this fall.

About the Author

Jessica Davis is the Associate Content Editor for 1105 Media.

Featured

  • Securing the Future

    Two security experts sit down with Security Today’s editor in chief Ralph C. Jensen to discuss what they see emerging and changing over the next several years along with how security stakeholders can harness these innovations into opportunities. Read Now

  • Collaboration Made Easy Using a Work Management Platform

    Effective collaboration between security operators, teams and other departments is critical to the smooth functioning of organizations. Yet, as organizations grow in complexity, it becomes more difficult for teams to coordinate with each other. This is compounded by staffing shortages, turnover and ineffective collaboration tools. Read Now

  • Creating a Safer World

    Managing and supporting locks and door hardware within a facility is a big responsibility. A building’s security needs to change over time as occupancy and use demands evolve, which can make it even more challenging. Read Now

  • Creating More Versatility

    Today, AI has become top of mind for most security professionals. It is the topic of conversation in the technology world and continues to transform the way data is used to make important business decisions. Read Now

New Products

  • Compact IP Video Intercom

    Viking’s X-205 Series of intercoms provide HD IP video and two-way voice communication - all wrapped up in an attractive compact chassis.

  • PE80 Series

    PE80 Series by SARGENT / ED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin

    ASSA ABLOY, a global leader in access solutions, has announced the launch of two next generation exit devices from long-standing leaders in the premium exit device market: the PE80 Series by SARGENT and the PED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin. These new exit devices boast industry-first features that are specifically designed to provide enhanced safety, security and convenience, setting new standards for exit solutions. The SARGENT PE80 and Corbin Russwin PED4000/PED5000 Series exit devices are engineered to meet the ever-evolving needs of modern buildings. Featuring the high strength, security and durability that ASSA ABLOY is known for, the new exit devices deliver several innovative, industry-first features in addition to elegant design finishes for every opening.

  • ComNet CNGE6FX2TX4PoE

    The ComNet cost-efficient CNGE6FX2TX4PoE is a six-port switch that offers four Gbps TX ports that support the IEEE802.3at standard and provide up to 30 watts of PoE to PDs. It also has a dedicated FX/TX combination port as well as a single FX SFP to act as an additional port or an uplink port, giving the user additional options in managing network traffic. The CNGE6FX2TX4PoE is designed for use in unconditioned environments and typically used in perimeter surveillance.