ChromeOS enhances privacy controls with android's microphone and camera kill switch

Google is enhancing privacy controls on ChromeOS by introducing Android's microphone and camera kill switch, one of the best privacy features of Android. With Android 12 adding privacy indicators and quick settings toggles to cut off microphone and camera access to all apps, these features will also be available on ChromeOS. The rollout will be available to all currently supported Chromebooks later this year.

Users can enable the privacy features on the stable version of ChromeOS by enabling the chrome://flags/#enable-cros-privacy-hub and chrome://flags/#enable-privacy-indicators flags. This allows users to turn off camera and/or microphone access for all apps and websites in the Privacy controls section within Security and Privacy in the Chromebook’s system settings. Additionally, the Privacy controls section also shows which cameras and microphones are connected to the device. An indicator in the bottom right corner next to the battery level shows whether the microphone and/or camera are accessed by an app or website.

Aside from privacy controls, ChromeOS has also introduced a new Data Protection tool to protect sensitive company and customer data and to hinder employees from copying and pasting and taking screenshots. The Chrome Enterprise framework now includes new security insights, including the option to monitor logins and logouts. As Chromebooks become increasingly popular for remote work and learning, it is essential to ensure that user data is secure and protected from potential breaches. The rollout of these features to all currently supported Chromebooks later this year will be a welcome addition for users who prioritize privacy and security.