Hands-on with LoJack for Mobile Devices (Gallery)

I previously wrote about the and had the chance to spend a bit of time with it installed on a test device. The new LoJack for Mobile Devices application and service is a persistent technology that is designed to make phone theft obsolete.

The LoJack software is integrated into all all Samsung Galaxy S4 devices at the factory, but you do need to download and install the LoJack software. Absolute Software currently sells the service for just $29.99 for 1 year. This year of service covers the cost of the application, remote functionality (track, locate, secure), and theft recovery team services if your device is reported stolen.

After you install and setup the software then you are prompted to create an account so you can login and manage your device from a web browser. After the software is setup on your phone, it remains active even if your Galaxy S4 is wiped and reset.

Locate: With the software installed, login to your account to perform remote functions. After selecting to locate the device you will see it appear on a map view with the last location of your phone identified.

Lock: To lock your phone remotely you select the lock option and then enter a lock message that will appear on your phone screen. You then enter a PIN and select to lock the phone. After confirmation, your phone will be remotely locked. Once you find it or it gets returned, you can then enter the PIN and unlock your phone.

Delete: If a lock is not good enough, you can also choose to remotely wipe your device. This action may be desired if you cannot find your device and have sensitive data you don't want to risk losing. You can choose to delete messages, contacts, phone logs, removable storage files, non-removable storage files, or a full manufacturer wipe. Again, a PIN is entered to confirm and carry out your request.

I didn't get a chance to test the ability of the recovery team to find a device, but they have been doing it with laptops for quite some time with great success. I look forward to the day when deterrents like this make phone theft obsolete and appreciate manufacturers and developers working to make this a reality.