It has been reported that Verizon will launch a new service tomorrow, Mobile Recovery for smartphones that will allow users to locate a phone, sound an alarm, remotely lock the smartphone and remotely wipe data from the device.
The service will be free to subscribers of a
Total Equipment Coverage (TEC) plan who own an Android, Windows Mobile,
webOS, or BlackBerry smartphone.
According to Verizon, "Once enrolled
in TEC, which is complete coverage against loss, theft, accidental
damage and defects after the manufacturer's warranty expires, customers
can visit www.MyMobileRecovery.com to download the Mobile Recovery
application, or text getmr to 6967 for download instructions."
These kinds of services are becoming more important to smartphone
owners. Verizon already offers Verizon Backup Assistant for free to back
up contacts.
The free Android, BlackBerry and Windows Phone app Lookout allows users to backup data, locate the phone, set off alarm, or remotely wipe ("nuke") data. The next version of HTC Sense for the HTC Desire HD and HTC Desire Z offers backup, phone location and remote data wipe.
Android Froyo 2.2 offers the ability to remotely wipe data from an
Android smartphone. Apple's iOS 3.1 or later (iOS 4.1 recommended) and Mobileme offers Find My iPhone and remote lock and data wipe.