You should be able to switch this off, if you notice it being enabled, so (now you know about it) it should be a one-time downtime.

I skimmed through the docs, couldn't see anything about soaking disabling it.

It's right there in the Google System Release Notes. Quoting https://support.google.com/product-documentation/answer/1434... :

---

### Google Play services v25.14 (2025-04-14)

#### Security & Privacy

• [Phone] Enables a future optional security feature, which will automatically restart your device if locked for 3 consecutive days.

Wow I'm blind. Thanks and apologies.

Same here, using several old androids as hotspots here and there. They stopped receiving updates long ago though, so I'm not worried.

Its not an OS update, its a Google Play Services update .. so if they still apply you would get it

I found it strange that things like 'prettier settings screens' and 'improved connection with cars and watches' would be included in Google Play Services. Surely those things are part of the OS not part of a thing which helps you access the Play store?

I've been using a LineageOS (prev. Cyanogenmod) phone for years and have never installed any google stuff so I don't get these updates anyway.

They've been moving more and more into Google Play Services because:

1. It's deployed to all devices and not subject to manufacturer approval for updates

2. It's easier to update without requiring user interaction or approval

3. It's closed source unlike Android so changes can't be incorporated by competitors

One possible option would be to install Netguard (open source Android firewall that doesn't require root) and block Play Services.

I have that on a spare unrooted Android phone. Seems to be working so far. But I'm sure Google could bypass it if they really wanted to. I don't know if they've ever made an effort to bypass Netguard (or similar) in the past.

Its an anti fragmentation measure

Also bad news for my megayacht (use's an old android phone to monitor location and detect movement)

I used to do something similar for the security cams at my desert property.

Picked up a gl.inet x300b off ebay and never looked back.