Google Rolling Out 'On-Body Detection' Feature

Google is adding a feature to Android's smart lock that can detect when the smartphone is being held or carried. It uses the accelerometer in the phone to detect its orientation.

The new feature aims to significantly cut down the number of times users need to enter a passcode to unlock their phones while they are out and about.

When the feature is enabled, it would require a passcode the first time phone is being accessed and keeps it unlocked until it is place down.

The feature is yet to be announced officially, but it was spotted in some phones recently.

"If you unlock your device and hand it to someone else, your device also stays unlocked as long as the other person continues to hold or carry it," read the message displayed on phones with the new feature.

The smart lock feature was introduced with Android 5.0 KitKat and allows users to set zones around trusted places, such as a home or office, and Wi-Fi or Bluetooth devices, such as a computer or car radio. When the phone is in those zones it will remain unlocked once it's been unlocked the first time, Computer World noted.

It can also recognize faces and remain unlocked when it sees a trusted face.