Android, as a platform, is growing beyond being just a mobile OS. It already made its way to homes through Android TV. Soon, it will start expanding onto desktops and laptops through the new Aluminium OS. This is a new Android-powered computing experience. Pixel users can already try out Android’s Desktop Mode. The latest development reveals signs of Android adopting more desktop-like features. Android 17 beta 2 reportedly includes references to Thunderbolt or USB4 security restrictions.
Android 17 Beta 2 reportedly adds Thunderbolt or USB4 security restrictions
According to Android Authority, the Android 17 beta 2 includes strings that suggest Android may soon pick up ChromeOS-style security features. We’re talking about the ability to limit how Thunderbolt or USB4 devices access system memory. For some context, by default, Google’s ChromeOS prevents devices connected via Thunderbolt or USB4 from accessing system memory directly, unless users explicitly allow it. This adds value from a security standpoint.
Android 17 beta 2 reportedly brings the same sort of access restriction to Android. This version includes references to a new setting called “Data access protection.” This should limit how external accessories connected through USB4 or Thunderbolt interact with system memory. The string also shows a note that reads, “This poses a security risk, so only connect devices you trust.”
Enterprise controls
Much like on ChromeOS, Android is also reportedly preparing enterprise tools for IT admins to control the memory access option across multiple managed devices. This also doesn’t seem to be a reused ChromeOS code, as the report notes it references Android 16’s Advanced Protection Mode. This mode may restrict the user’s ability to override the limitation.
Currently, even those on Android 17 beta 2 won’t see this new option on their Pixel phones. When it finally launches, though, users might see this toggle on the USB Preference screen when setting the file transfer options.
The post Android 17 Beta 2 Hints at Google Adopting ChromeOS Security Features appeared first on Android Headlines.
