Google [finally] launched Find My Device, a new feature leveraging a network of over a billion Android devices, to help locate lost gadgets.
- Find My Device uses a vast network of Android devices to aid locating their lost gadgets.
- The feature allows people to locate compatible Android phones and tablets. It will cause them to ring and display their location on a map, even if they’re offline or powered off.
- The technology is expected to expand to everyday items like keys, purses, and wallets, and integrate with Nest smart home devices. Find My Device includes a feature that allows sharing the location of items with other people.
What’s Happening & Why This Matters:
If you’ve ever experienced the frustration of misplacing your phone or tablet, this feature is for you! Find My Device technology features a basic functionality similar to that of Apple and Tile’s tracking systems. Users install the app and then use it to locate Android devices. From the app, users have the ability to make them ring and display their location. The technology also integrates with Nest smart home gadgets for an easy way to find lost items in relation to pre-existing Nest devices.
In the near future, Find My Device is expected to expand to Bluetooth tracker tags (including popular companies Chipolo and Pebblebee). Further, Find My Device will integrate with a wider range of products, including JBL and Sony headphones. Google delayed this technology rollout until Apple introduced new tracking protections to address stalking concerns, indicating that the company is committed to resolving privacy issues related to the technology.
TF Summary: What’s Next
The newly launched Find My Device technology is an important Android ecosystem innovation with smart methods to help people locate their gadgets. Google continues to provide users with improved products’ security and convenience . As Find My Device is adopted and integrates with new services, the impact on the Android user experience will likely improve.