Google is developing a feature that could allow Wear OS smartwatches to unlock Android phones without requiring a PIN or fingerprint scan, according to code discovered in a recent beta release.

Android Authority found early development code in the latest beta version of Google Play Services (25.29.31) that suggests an update to Identity Check, a security feature introduced in Android 15.

The feature is designed to prevent phone theft by requiring biometric or password authentication when users are outside trusted locations like home or work.

The new code strings indicate that a connected smartwatch could act as a “trust signal,” allowing phones to recognise users and skip additional authentication when the watch is nearby and unlocked.

While this wouldn’t eliminate the need for PINs or fingerprints entirely, it could reduce how frequently users need to verify their identity.

The feature appears to be part of a broader effort to tighten integration between Android phones and Wear OS-powered devices, including Galaxy Watch and Pixel Watch models.

If implemented, it could make the Android ecosystem more cohesive and user-friendly by balancing convenience with security.

The update is still under development, and Google has not confirmed when or if it will be released publicly.

The feature represents a potential shift in how Android handles authentication, using proximity and device pairing to streamline the user experience while maintaining security protocols.

Identity Check currently requires authentication when users are away from designated trusted locations, helping protect against unauthorised access if a phone is stolen.

The smartwatch integration would add another layer of contextual security by leveraging the presence of a paired, unlocked wearable device.

The development highlights the evolving relationship between smartphones and wearable technology, as manufacturers seek to create more seamless experiences across connected devices while addressing security concerns.