Google is rolling out a new “Privacy Screen” feature this week that will allow Google Drive users on iOS devices to use passcodes or biometric authentication to protect their files.
Privacy Screen will use Face ID, Touch ID or a passcode to lock the app — only bringing documents and files into view when the app verifies you are using it.
The feature is activated each time you close the Drive app and reopen it and also locks files if you switch between Google Drive and another app, according to a Google spokesperson. You’ll have the option to turn this feature on and adjust its timing in Drive settings.
“Sometimes you might want a little more privacy for documents stored on your phone,” the spokesperson told Digital Trends. “You might share devices with family or loved ones more often if you’re working from home.”
Correction: An earlier version of this story misidentified the scope of the feature. Privacy Screen locks the entire Google Drive app.
Related Posts
The best free VPNs for 2025
While you need a subscription to use the best and fastest VPNs, the best free VPNs protect your privacy at no charge. There are some trade-offs, but you can still enjoy good speed, premium features, and great security. Proton VPN
How to get Fortnite on your Android phone or tablet
Though Fortnite has been missing from the Google Play Store for quite some time, that doesn't mean it's impossible to enjoy the game on your smartphone or tablet. With just a few quick steps, it's possible to download the real Fortnite game (not one of its many imitations on Google Play) and get back to enjoying the chaotic battle royale.
What is USB OTG? Here’s how to use USB drives and more on your smartphone
While a single port across multiple devices is the basis for ultimate convenience, it also raises one major issue. Most of the legacy (and even some modern-day) USB peripherals use the larger USB Type-A connector, and they might outnumber the ones that have already transitioned to USB-C. Thankfully, there is a fairly easy solution to the problem, and that is using a dongle or a connector, with the connection facilitated by a very straightforward technology commonly known as USB OTG.