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The Find My Device feature on Android is getting a big expansion to include more than just your phone. Today during Google I/O 2023, Google lifted the curtain on a bunch of new stuff happening with Android. And part of those upcoming changes is an improved Find My Device feature with expansion to include numerous products. Ranging from headphones to tablets and more.
And it looks like you’ll be able to track just about anything you may want to keep an eye on. Your keys, wallet, headphones, and more all seem to be fair game. Basically anything that doesn’t have tracking tech already built-in. But how can you track stuff that doesn’t have tracking tech built-in you ask? Simple. With tracking tags.
The expansion for Find My Device will use tracking tags and other phones to find stuff
Obviously, it would be a little hard for the Find My Device feature to actually find anything if the technology isn’t available for it to grab onto. The refreshed experience Google plans to roll out (which is happening this Summer) will use tracking tags and a network of Android devices to locate your most prized possessions.
You’ll need to attach tracking tags from companies like Chipolo, Tile, Pebblebee to your stuff. Then, add those devices to the Find My Device network to make them findable. Google says the network is composed of over a billion Android devices around the world to help accomplish finding things. Plus, Google says location data that’s sourced from the network is end-to-end encrypted so your data stays safe from prying eyes.
Using this new network, you’ll be able to locate items through Bluetooth proximity. Google also says that it’s working with partners like JBL and Sony to add headphones from those brands to the Find My Device ecosystem in the near future.