In the Android 17 QPR3 Beta 2 beta, Google has made Quick Settings lockout available for connectivity tiles. Without unlocking the phone, users can no longer toggle Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, airplane mode or mobile data. The beta was released on 21 October 2026, as reported by Android Authority, 9to5google and droid-life.
Android 17 QPR3 Beta 2 Quick Settings lockout
The new feature is called Lock Quick Settings connectivity. According to Android Authority, you enable it in Settings > Security & privacy > Device unlock or in Settings > Display & touch > Lock screen. 9to5google and droid-life mention only the second path.
Once enabled, the phone requires a PIN, password, pattern, fingerprint or face before it changes the state of the tiles. This was reported by droid-life. The flashlight, auto-rotate and battery saver remain available without unlocking, Android Authority writes.
Why the feature exists
It is meant to prevent thieves from turning off connectivity on a stolen phone and making it harder to locate. Android Authority and droid-life agree on this. Android Authority spotted the option back in June and again a few months later, but it was not available. 9to5google notes that the feature first appeared in the Android Canary 2609 build.
According to 9to5google, Beta 2 is available for Pixel 6a through 11 Pro Fold and Pixel Tablet. The same outlet writes that the update fixes occasional crashes and device restarts and issues with the Internet tile. The feature was flagged by Mishaal Rahman of Google in a post on Threads, Android Authority wrote.
Those interested can sign up for the beta program on the Android Beta for Pixel page and select their device. The update will arrive as an OTA.