14 DAY TRIAL // Google has just announced that its Gmail client for Android devices has just been updated with a few security features that are meant to make users' accounts safer than even before.
After adding support for multiple third-party email accounts, Google has now implemented some security features that should protect these accounts.
If you already have Gmail for Android installed and use it on a daily basis, then you will probably not notice these new features at first glance.
According to Google, beginning today, Gmail features OAuth support for all Yahoo and Microsoft email accounts. So, if you manage your Yahoo and Microsoft accounts through Gmail, you will now benefit from OAuth support.
Make use of the new two-step verification feature
But what does this mean and how will it help keep your email account safe from prying eyes? Well, it's pretty simple, as OAuth adds an extra layer of protection and allows users to take advantage of security features like two-step verification and account recovery.
Google has yet to confirm how it will roll out the update and if it will be available via Google Play Store. Gmail for Android might get a silent update that won't notify users when it's available.
This means that you should keep an eye out for it next time you’re adding an email account to your Android Gmail app because you won't know when the latest version is installed on your phone.
It's also worth mentioning that this update, along with several bug fixes and performance improvements, will be rolling out over the next few days. This means that the new security features announced by Google won't be available right now for everyone.
You can now download Gmail for Android for free via Google Play store. The application should be fully compatible with all devices powered by Android 2.3 and up.