Find your lost Android Device when Disconnected from the Internet

…Introducing the New and Improved Find My Device Network for Android Users

In a world where losing your devices and accessories can be a real hassle, Google is stepping up its game with an exciting upgrade to the Find My Device feature. Previously, Find My Device was a handy tool for locating your gadgets as long as they were connected to the internet. But with the latest update, you can now track your devices even when they’re offline, thanks to the new Find My Device network.

What’s New?

The upgraded Find My Device network allows you to locate not just your Android devices but also any compatible Fast Pair accessories, such as earbuds, headphones, and even trackers attached to your wallet, keys, or bike. The best part? It works even if these items are disconnected from your device or offline.

This innovation is made possible by tapping into the power of over a billion Android devices across the globe. These devices form a vast network, using Bluetooth to scan for nearby items. If another Android device detects your lost item, it securely sends the item’s location to Find My Device. This means that your lost items can still be found, even if they’re out of range of your own devices.

Privacy and Security at the Core

Google understands the importance of privacy and security. That’s why your devices’ locations are encrypted using the PIN, pattern, or password of your Android devices. This encryption ensures that only you and the people you choose to share your devices with can see their locations. Google, or any other third parties, will not have access to this information.

How to Get Started

This new feature will be automatically enabled on your Android devices in the next three days. You’ll receive a notification when it goes live. If you prefer not to participate in the network, you have the option to opt out through the Find My Device website before the feature is activated. Even after it’s turned on, you can manage your device’s participation in the network at any time through the Find My Device settings on your device.

Opting In/Opting Out:

Users will receive a notification when this feature is activated in three days. Prior to activation, users can opt out through Find My Device on the web. This choice applies to all Android devices linked to the user’s email. After activation, users can manage device participation through Find My Device settings on their device.

Conclusion

With this upgrade, Google is making it easier than ever to keep track of your valuable devices and accessories, providing peace of mind even when they’re offline. Whether it’s your smartphone, earbuds, or your bike keys, Find My Device has got you covered.

By: DESTINY YOUNG Technology Infrastructure, IT Operations and ?Cybersecurity Engineer