From iOS 11, Apple included a way to quickly disable Touch ID and Face ID on iOS. Con Android P, Google is introducing a feature called “lock mode” which essentially does the same thing.
Android P's lock mode will disable all biometric and Smart Lock features, as well as all lock screen notifications. This is a kind of failsafe phone setting that you can enable when you need additional security.
As an example, law enforcement cannot force you to unlock your phone with a PIN, password or pattern, but may Force you to use biometric data to unlock the device. If at any time you are in a potential situation where you may be asked to unlock your phone and wish to exercise your right to refuse, lock mode is required.
How to enable lockdown mode
Lockdown mode is disabled by default, so you will need to enable it first before you can use it. To do this, go to the Settings menu, then touch the option “security and location”.
On the Security & Location page, touch settings “Screen lock preferences”. On the next page, activate the option “show lock”.
Bam, are you there. The function is now activated.
How to use lock mode
Of course, just enabling the function does not activate lock mode; this only enables the function that enables you to activate it when you need it.
To use lock mode, press and hold the power button as if you were going to turn off the phone. In the middle of typical Shutdown alternatives, Restart and Screenshot, you will see a new entry: Blocking.
Touching this, the fingerprint reader will be instantly disabled, as well as any Smart Lock features you may have enabled. Also hides all notifications on the lock screen, which is an exceptionally nice touch in case you are in a situation where notifications could be damning.
To unlock the phone again, you will need to enter your PIN, password or pattern. Despite this, once unlocked, note that lock mode will be disabled. You will need to press the power button and turn it back on whenever you need it.
