With the release of Android 6.0, code name Marshmallow, Google has mandated that OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) enable full disk encryption. Google is requiring that the feature be enabled as part of the ‘out of box experience’ for customers setting up new mobile devices. Google previously attempted to do the same for Android 5.0, code name Lollipop, but due to performance issues on some manufacturer’s devices, eased their requirement. Regarding Android 6.0, even if the customer skips setting the secure lockscreen, the device will encrypt using a default PIN.
Apple has mandated partial or full disk encryption since iOS version 8. Since it seems like everyone has an iPhone anyway, why should Google’s revitalized push for mandatory encryption matter? Because, in actuality Apple only holds approximately 42% of the U.S. market share. Worldwide that drops to a surprising low of approximately 14%. So while it may seem that every one you know has an iPhone, the data tells us that when we look at the greater pool of mobile device users, most of them are using Android.
Google’s recent announcement is a huge step forward in mobile Data Privacy & Security.
Related Articles:
- Google Pushes Mandatory Full-Disk Encryption In Android 6.0 – http://www.securityweek.com/google-pushes-mandatory-full-disk-encryption-android-60
- Android 6.0 Will Finally Require Manufacturers To Enable Full Disk Encryption By Default On New Devices – http://www.androidpolice.com/2015/10/19/android-6-0-will-finally-require-manufacturers-to-enable-full-disk-encryption-by-default-on-new-devices/
- Smartphone OS Market Share, 2015 Q2 – http://www.idc.com/prodserv/smartphone-os-market-share.jsp
- comScore Reports March 2015 US Smartphone Subscriber Market Share – https://www.comscore.com/Insights/Market-Rankings/comScore-Reports-March-2015-US-Smartphone-Subscriber-Market-Share