In a significant upgrade to its device-tracking capabilities, Google is set to roll out a new feature in its Find My Device service. Currently, the service allows users to locate their devices when they are connected to the internet. With the upcoming update, users will be able to locate their devices even if they are offline. This includes not only smartphones but also compatible Fast Pair accessories like earbuds, headphones, and trackers attached to personal items such as wallets, keys, and bikes.
The enhanced Find My Device network will leverage the vast network of over a billion Android devices. These devices will use Bluetooth to scan for nearby items. When another device detects a user’s item, it will securely send the location where the item was detected to Find My Device. This functionality will be reciprocal, with users’ Android devices aiding in the detection of others’ offline items.
A key feature of this update is the focus on privacy and security. The locations of devices will be encrypted using the PIN, pattern, or password set by the user. Only the user and those they choose to share their device information with in Find My Device will be able to see these locations. Google has assured users that the locations will not be visible to the company nor used for any other purposes.
Users will receive a notification about this new feature on their Android devices in three days. Until then, they have the option to opt out of the network via the Find My Device website. This decision will apply to all Android devices linked to the user’s account. After the feature is activated, users can still manage their participation through the Find My Device settings on their devices.
This update represents a significant step forward in device security and convenience for Android users, providing them with more robust tools to track and secure their devices.
