Soon, Google will protect your Drive files with Face ID
Google Drive always remains protected with a password - the same one you use for your Google account. But, once the service is logged in on a phone, it doesn't request this password every time you use it, meaning anyone accessing your device can access your Drive's contents too. Now, thanks to Google, there is a way to avoid that, at least on iPhones/iPads.
Privacy Screen feature for Google Drive
In a matter of days, Google will release a new 'Privacy Screen' feature for Drive users on iOS. The capability, first reported by Digital Trends, will bring the ability to lock the contents of the cloud storage platform. So, just like WhatsApp messages, your Drive data would also be encrypted, opening only when you enter a password allowing the app to verify your identity.
You will get multiple options to lock select files
With Privacy Screen, you will be able to use the same screen lock that is active on your iPhone/iPad to protect Drive files. This means if you are using Face ID or Touch ID to protect your phone, the lock will be applied to the files you choose to protect. If there is a passcode then it will be used for the same purpose.
Drive settings will let you configure lock activation window
According to a Google spokesperson, the lock will be activated as and when you close and reopen Google Drive or switch to some other app. However, there will be options in Drive Settings - where you enable the feature - to adjust the activation window and give users some time to access the app freely before the passcode/Face ID lock comes into effect.
No word on Android release yet
The feature will be launched on iOS this week but there is no word on an Android release yet. Google's spokesperson emphasized that the capability will give you more privacy for the "documents stored on your phone," especially in cases when you are frequently sharing your device with family members or loved ones (which can happen as most of us are home these days).
