Google is preparing to roll out a significant update to its Find My Device feature, expanding its capabilities with a new network that will allow users to locate their devices even when they’re offline.
This update will also enable the tracking of compatible Fast Pair accessories, such as earbuds, headphones, and trackers, even when they’re disconnected from the primary device.
Key Features of the Update
- Offline Device Tracking: The new Find My Device network will allow users to locate their devices without an internet connection. This marks a significant enhancement over the current system, which requires devices to be online to be tracked.
- Accessory Tracking: The update will also bring the ability to track compatible Fast Pair accessories when they’re disconnected from the main device. This includes commonly lost items like earbuds, headphones, and even items like wallets, keys, or bikes with attached trackers.
How the Network Works
The Find My Device network will leverage the power of over a billion Android devices, creating a vast and secure tracking network. Here’s how it functions:
- Bluetooth Scanning: Devices within the network will use Bluetooth to detect nearby items.
- Secure Location Transmission: If a device in the network detects an item, it will securely transmit the detected location to Find My Device.
- Community Support: This system works both ways, as your Android devices will also help locate other users’ lost items when detected nearby.
Privacy and Security
Google has emphasized that the locations of users’ devices will be encrypted, ensuring that only the user—and those they’ve explicitly shared access with—can view them. The data will be secured using the PIN, pattern, or password associated with the user’s Android devices. Importantly, Google will not have access to this location data, nor will it be used for any other purposes.
Rollout and Opt-Out Information
The new feature will be activated automatically in three days, with users receiving a notification on their Android devices. Those who prefer not to participate in the network can opt out before the feature goes live by visiting Find My Device on the web. This opt-out will apply to all Android devices linked to the user’s account. After activation, users can still manage their participation in the network through the Find My Device settings on each device.
The upcoming launch of the Find My Device network represents a major advancement in device tracking, providing users with more reliable and secure ways to keep track of their devices and accessories—even when they’re offline.
