The period a mobile device display remains active before automatically locking is a configurable setting on Android operating systems. This timeout duration, measured in seconds or minutes, dictates how long the screen stays illuminated after the last user interaction. For example, a setting of 30 seconds will cause the screen to darken and subsequently lock thirty seconds after the user stops touching the screen.
Adjusting this setting directly impacts device security and battery life. A shorter timeout enhances security by minimizing the window of opportunity for unauthorized access. Conversely, a longer duration reduces the frequency of unlocking, improving user convenience at the expense of potential battery drain and security risk. Historically, this setting has been a standard feature on Android devices, allowing users to personalize their experience based on individual needs and priorities.
