14 DAY TRIAL // One of the perks of being a Nexus owner is that Android software updates are controlled by Google, not the carriers or manufacturers. While the rest of the Android world has to wait weeks or even months for software updates, Nexus owners get the latest and greatest Android builds almost right away.
But in the case of Android 5.1, the rollout has been a little sluggish and not all the Nexus devices have received the update.
However, it seems that things are slowly moving into the right direction, as the Nexus 4 has reportedly started getting the new build.
And if you're holding on to a Nexus phone, you will soon be in for a treat.
This week, as part of the newest update to Google Play Services 7.0 and Android 5.1 Lollipop, a new voice unlocking feature should be available from your Smart Lock security section in standard Settings in Android (as seen at Ars Technica).
Nexus owners will be able to unlock their device using their voice
The new feature called Trusted Voice will be available alongside Trusted Devices (like Android Wear devices), Trusted Places, Trusted Face, and On-Body detection.
Naturally, the update will go out to all Android devices at some point, but respective manufacturers will have to give the green light first.
Android 5.0 Lollipop already came bundling a “smart lock” feat which allows users to pick a particular lock screen, including a PIN, pattern or password. The first two options allowed users to add a “Trusted Device” which would skip the lock screen if connected to a certain “trusted” Bluetooth device.
Another possibility would be to go with the “Trusted Face” feature, which uses facial recognition via the front facing camera. But with the new “Trusted Voice,” Google is now granting users permission to use their voice as password.
The smart lock system comes around when an “OK Google” voice command is issued. Keep in mind that you’ll be able to retain your voice model or delete it if you choose to.
There’s the possibility of setting up a backup just in case you have a sore throat one day. To prevent other scenarios, you’ll also be able to choose a PIN code that will allow you to unlock your device.
For the time being, the service is available only for the Nexus 5, but other Nexus devices (including Google’s latest) should get it as well soon.