Google's Device Lock Controller app has silently been developed by the search giant. It allows banks and credit providers to remotely lock your device if you don't make payments. The Device Lock Controller app uses the DeviceAdminService API of Android to remotely restrict access to the device in case of a payment default. It is already listed on Google Play, though users cannot download it on their own. The app also retains access to basic functionality including emergency calling and access to settings even when the device is restricted.
“Device Lock Controller enables device management for credit providers. Your provider can remotely restrict access to your device if you don't make payments,” reads the description of the app.
A Google spokesperson confirmed to XDA Developers that the new app had been launched in partnership with a Kenyan network operator Safaricom. In late July, the operator launched a financial plan called “Lipa Mdogo Mdogo” (Pay Bit by Bit) to offer Android (Go edition) smartphones in instalments. That plan included a clause under which the operator will “lock the device” following non-payment for four days.
Google seems to have enabled Safaricom to lock payment defaulters' phones using the Device Lock Controller app. However, it is unclear whether the app could be expanded to other credit providers and in other markets in the future.
Google clarified to XDA Developers that the Device Lock Controller app should not be listed on Google Play for general users. The Google Play listing of the app was, however, still accessible at the time of filing this story. But nonetheless, you can't find it on the Play Store available on your smartphone or tablet.
Is Android One holding back Nokia smartphones in India? We discussed this on Orbital, our weekly technology podcast, which you can subscribe to via Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or RSS, download the episode, or just hit the play button below.
For the latest tech news and reviews, follow Gadgets 360 on Twitter, Facebook, and Google News. For the latest videos on gadgets and tech, subscribe to our YouTube channel.
"device" - Google News
November 13, 2020 at 02:11PM
https://ift.tt/3eRXCYg
Google’s Device Lock Controller App Allows Banks, Creditors to Remotely Lock Payment Defaulter’s Phon... - Gadgets 360
"device" - Google News
https://ift.tt/2KSbrrl
https://ift.tt/2YsSbsy
Bagikan Berita Ini
0 Response to "Google’s Device Lock Controller App Allows Banks, Creditors to Remotely Lock Payment Defaulter’s Phon... - Gadgets 360"
Post a Comment