What is Google’s Find My Device network and how does it work?

In 2013, Google introduced Android Device Manager to assist users in locating lost or stolen Android devices, later rebranding it as Find My Device in 2017. Now, the company is rolling out a full revamp of the service – the Find My Device network.

Unlike its predecessors, which primarily located Android phones connected to the internet, the enhanced version can now locate a wider range of items, including those without internet or location capabilities.

But how exactly does it work, and how do you use it? Here’s everything we know about the new tracking service so far.

What is Google Find My Device?

At its core, Find My Device is a service provided by Google that helps users locate their lost or stolen Android devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches.

It offers features like tracking the device’s location, remotely locking it, and even erasing its data to prevent unauthorised access.

However, the network became a lot better in 2024, moving from a standalone service to a collaborative network that can use millions of Android devices to locate lost items.

This update also introduces compatibility with various Bluetooth trackers such as Tile, Chipolo, and Pebblebee, as well as other devices such as Google’s own Pixel Buds Pro and select headphones from Sony and JBL.

Moreover, Find My Device now includes the capability to detect unwanted trackers, including devices from other networks such as AirTag, which can be hidden and used to track people.

When will Google Find My Device be available?

Google started the global rollout of the new Find My Device network on April 8, debuting it first in the US and Canada. An expanded release, including the UK and Europe, is likely over the course of the next few months.

It was initially announced at 2023’s Google I/O developer conference and was slated for a summer 2023 release. However, in a Google blog post from July 2023, it was revealed that the launch would be postponed in order for the unknown tracker alerts to be fully finalised with Apple.

Which devices will Google Find My Device be available on? 

Google’s Find My Device is will be available on all devices running on Android 9 or later. You can also use the Find My Device web page using a web browser on any device with internet access.

The service now supports various Bluetooth trackers, with Chipolo and Peeblebee’s trackers launching in May 2024 and more expected from Motorola, Eufy , and others by the end of the year. It also incorporates Nest smart speakers and smart displays for more precise location tracking within the home.

Will Google Find My Device be free?

Yes, Google’s Find My Device network is free to use for everyone. However, as said above, you’ll need a phone that’s running at least Android 9.

All of the best budget phones and best mid-range phones are compatible with the latest version of this system. However, if you’re planning to change your phone and want to make sure you get access to the new service, be sure to check out our round-up of the best Android phones.

How will Google Find My Device work?

Similar to Apple’s Find My network, Google’s Find My Device uses Bluetooth and location proximity data from supported Android devices to locate lost items, leveraging a vast network of participating devices for increased reliability.

Unlike the previous version, which required your device to be online for an up-to-date location, the new network can also locate offline or dead devices on compatible hardware, though this is limited to the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro for now.

It displays the location of enrolled Android devices on a version of Google Maps, offering features such as playing a sound, leaving a message on the lock screen, or remotely erasing the device if necessary.

Unlike iOS, Find My Device is also automatically enabled on Android devices, requiring minimal user input as long as location settings are enabled.

Why will Google Find My Device be better than Tile or Chipolo?

Google’s Find My Device offers several advantages over competitors like Tile and Chipolo, making it the obvious choice for most Android users.

First and foremost, it’s deeply integrated into the Android ecosystem, ensuring seamless functionality across a wide range of Android devices. This integration provides users with a native solution for locating lost items without the need for additional apps or accessories.

Unlike Tile and Chipolo, which rely on their own networks, Find My Device leverages a vast network of Android devices worldwide. This crowdsourced approach enhances the accuracy and reliability of location tracking as more devices contribute to the search effort.

One of the standout features of Find My Device is its ability to locate devices even when they’re offline. This is made possible by leveraging Bluetooth proximity data from participating Android devices, ensuring that lost items can still be located even if they’re not connected to the internet.

Lastly, Google prioritises user privacy and security, ensuring that location data is encrypted and protected from unauthorised access. Users can trust that their personal information remains secure while using Find My Device to locate lost items.

Will Google make an Apple AirTag rival?

Despite no official announcements from Google regarding its AirTag rival, credible rumours from reliable leaker Kamila Wojciechowska in January 2023 suggested the concept might be unveiled at Google I/O 2023.

While the anticipated Google’s AirTag rival, codenamed ‘grogu,’ didn’t materialse at either Google I/O 2023 or the Pixel 8 event in October, Google did announce its Find My Device network at the former.

Now, with the service is finally rolling out, the wait for Google’s AirTag rival may soon come to an end. It is possible that the device will be unveiled at the Google I/O developer conference on 10 june 2024.

However, we will most likely have to wait until the Find My Device network is globally available, which is likely to take until 2025.