For years, Apple users have enjoyed the Find My Device feature, making it simple to locate lost items like iPhones and AirPods. Google has now introduced its version, the Find My Device network for Android phones. Originally set for launch last year, it was delayed due to concerns about potential misuse. Google recently confirmed the launch in a blog post.
“Today, the all-new Find My Device is rolling out to Android devices around the world, starting in the US and Canada. With a new, crowdsourced network of over a billion Android devices, Find My Device can help you find your misplaced Android devices and everyday items quickly and securely,” the company’s post read.
The Find My Device feature is designed to assist Android users in finding their phones, smartwatches, earbuds, and trackers, even when these devices are offline. It is initially launching in the US and Canada before expanding to other regions worldwide.
The new network for finding devices, unlike the current Find My Device setting that needs devices to be powered on and connected, uses Bluetooth to locate devices even when they’re offline. Called Powered Off Finding, it stores beacons in the Bluetooth controller’s memory, helping detect supported devices without an active connection. Additionally, Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro phones can be located even if they’re powered off or have a dead battery.
Google outlined five methods for users to locate their devices using the Find My Device network.
- Locating compatible Android devices by ringing them or viewing their location on a map, even if they’re offline.
- Using the Find My Device app to locate items like keys or luggage via Bluetooth tracker tags made by Chipolo and Pebblebee.
- Utilising a “Find nearby” button to pinpoint nearby objects, such as wallets or keys, using Bluetooth tags.
- Viewing missing phones or items in relation to home Nest devices.
- Share an accessory with others through the app, allowing everyone to keep track of it.
Google mentioned that the Find My Device network is compatible with any Android phone running Android 9 or higher. The company emphasized its focus on security and privacy, highlighting features like end-to-end encryption of location data and aggregated device location reporting to prevent unauthorized tracking.
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