After a long wait, Google launch its Find My Device network for Android devices on 8th April 2024. This feature was first announce by Google in 2023, but it stay under development. In last week, a report reveal that the feature could finally be release soon, and now Google has roll out this new feature globally.
This new feature utilises a crowdsource network of all Android users to locate smartphones and accessories that go missing.
The feature works similar to the Find My app on the iPhone.
In a blog post, Erik Kay, VP Engineering at Google said :
“Today, the all-new Find My Device is rolling out to Android devices around the world, starting in the U.S. 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.”
You can now locate lost Android phones, even when offline with new Find My Device
— 2YoDoINDIA News Network (@2yodoindia) April 9, 2024
For more news visit https://t.co/98KV4yIruC#2YoDoINDIA #Google #Android #AndroidPhones #FindMyDevice pic.twitter.com/2PjbF3Cdiw
The most useful capability of the network is to locate devices even when they are offline.
Means a smartphone or an accessory does not need to be connect to the internet for it to be trackable.
Google Pixel 8 and Google Pixel 8 Pro users will be able to find their devices even if they are power off or the battery is dead.
This can be quite useful in case a device is stolen.
The Find My Device network also comes with a Find nearby button that can help find the exact location of the smartphone or the accessory.
Google said that the capabilities of the Find My Device network will also allow Bluetooth tracker tags from Chipolo and Pebblebee on the network and track their location.
These tags can be attach to everyday items such as keys, wallets, or bags to secure them.
Find My Device network feature will be roll out starting in May.
Later in 2024, Bluetooth tags from eufy, Motorola, and Jio will also be added.
Also, the Find My Device network will be integrate with Google Nest and the Android feature will show a lost device’s proximity to the Google Nest devices to offer a reference point.
You will also be able to share an accessory with family and friends so everyone can keep an eye on its location.
By using a Bluetooth tag, you can share the house key or TV remote with family members and all the members can individually locate the item.
There is a focus on privacy and data protection as well.
Google said the network has multi-layer protection built into it to keep personal information private.
The Find My Device network comes with end-to-end encryption of location data and an aggregated device location reporting feature that stops unwant tracking of a device.
Find My Device network app works with devices running Android 9 or later.
