Google updated its 'Find My Device' Android network: 5 new things it can do
The new Find My Device network for Android devices began rolling out on Monday. It's available for all devices using Android 9 or later. We're currently on Android 14, which covers a broad range of devices (Android 15 is coming out soon).
The updated Android equivalent to Apple's Find My network includes much of the same functionality as its competitor. But, there are a few extras, too.
Here's a few things you can expect from the newly updated Find My Device for Android.
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1. Find offline devices
If you lose your Android device, Find My Device will help you locate it on a map and let you know as you get closer to its location.
However, some Android devices can be located now even if they are offline or their battery is dead. According to Google, Pixel 8 and 8 Pro smartphones have this functionality.
2. Find nearby
Find My Device also comes with a new proximity feature that lets users how close they are to discovering their sought-after device.
Tapping "Find nearby" will let users know if they are getting closer to where their device is being pinged.
3. Track items with tags
Much like how Apple allows users to locate anything with an AirTag attached to it, Android devices will soon be able to do the same.
Google says that Bluetooth tracker tags from companies like Chipolo, Pebblebee, eufy, Jio, and Motorola will be able to be tracked via the Find My Device feature starting in May.
In addition, Find My Device will work with cross-compatible Android and iOS unknown tracker alerts features in order to keep bad actors from weaponizing these tags.
4. Share tracked items with others
Once those Bluetooth trackers are out next month, users will be able to share the location of whatever items they want with their family and friends via Find My Device.
This could come in handy if you'd like the entire family to know where the house keys are.
And, of course, users can revoke access later on if need be too.
5. Nest interaction
Being that Android and Nest devices are Google products, Find My Device incorporates both into helping users find whatever item they are looking for. Find My Device will let users know where a located Android device is in proximity to Nest smart home products.
For example, if you left your tracked house keys by your Nest speaker, Find My Device will let you know.
