Alphabet owned Google has finally launched its new Find My Device Network (FMDN). It is a crowdsourced network taking advantage of over a billion Android devices in the world to help users find misplaced or lost Android devices. It utilizes Bluetooth proximity to allow participating Android devices to contribute to the location of nearby items. Using find my device network, one can ring or view compatible Android devices on a map in FMDN.
Find My Device feature has begun rolling out to Android users in the USA and Canada. Google promises that other regions will soon get the feature. The new Find My Device works with devices running Android 9 or much higher. By default, aggregated location reporting is enabled but one can opt into contributing non-aggregated locations.
Bluetooth Tracker Tag
From May this year, it will be possible to find items by placing a Bluetooth tracker tag compatible with the Find My Device network on them. Chipolo and Pebblebee are the first to offer accessories built for FMDN but later this year eufy, Jio, Motorola, and others will offer Bluetooth tags. Google has asked users to look out for software updates coming to headphones from JBL, Sony and others. The devices are all set to join the Find My Device network.
Security has also been considered in design. This is especially given the stalking related lawsuit Apple faces due to its AirTag Tracker. As a result of efforts by both Apple and Google, the tracker tags built for FMDN are also compatible with the unknown tracker alerts feature.
Your Android phone can warn you if it detects an unfamiliar Bluetooth tag traveling with you. Hence, users will not have to worry about unknown persons tracking them without their knowledge. The feature is already available on Android and is will soon be rolled out on iOS.
In addition, location data on the Find My Device network is encrypted using the PIN, pattern or password for your Android device. This helps protect the privacy of everyone participating in the network.
How to use Find My Device
Find My Device has some nice features to make tracking down a lost item easy. If you’re near a lost device, a “find nearby” button will appear in the app that helps you pinpoint its location. If you have Google Nest devices at home, FMD can also show your lost device’s proximity to them, making them easy reference points.
1. Locate offline devices
Users can find the location of an Android phone and tablet by ringing them or viewing their location on a map in the app. This is possible even when the devices are offline. Notably, Pixel 8 and 8 Pro have specialized hardware enabling owners to find their devices even when they’re powered off or the battery is dead.
2. Keep track of everyday items with compatible Bluetooth tags
Starting in May, you’ll be able to locate everyday items like your keys, wallet or luggage with Bluetooth tracker tags in the Find My Device app. These tags, built specifically for the Find My Device network, will be compatible with unknown tracker alerts across Android and iOS to help protect you from unwanted tracking.
3. Find nearby items
In the event the device you have misplaced is nearby, a “Find nearby” button will appear to help you figure out the exact location.
4. Pinpoint devices at home with Nest
We’ve all been there – losing your phone under the couch! The good news is, Find My Device now uses your Nest devices to show you if your phone (or keys with a tracker) is nearby.
5. Share accessories with friends and family
The app lets you share accessories like house keys, remotes, or luggage with friends and family. Everyone can see their location in the app, making it easier to find things and help each other out.
