Google's Find My Device

In an effort to keep up with its competitors, Google is expanding and modernizing its Find My Device platform. During the recent I/O 2023 keynote, Google’s Sameer Samat announced that the company will be adding headphones, earbuds, tablets, and other product categories to its Find My Device service. While Google already supports some of these devices, the company plans to add many more in the coming months.

Google’s Find My Device Now Uses Other Android Phones to Find Your Lost Items

With the expansion of the Find My Device platform, Google aims to create a vast network of devices of other people that can be in use to locate your missing gadgets. This approach is similar to location-tracking solutions offered by Apple and Tile. According to Samat, the network will be powered by billions of Android devices from around the world. In addition, third-party companies like Tile and Chipolo will participate in the updated program.

Privacy was a top priority for Google when designing the updated Find My Device platform. The company cannot view device location data due to encryption. Google also addressed the potential for malicious use of these location-tracking products. The Unknown Tracker Alerts feature will notify you when a tracking device, including Apple AirTags, is traveling with you.

Samat emphasized that Google and Apple are working together to prevent stalking with these gadgets that were originally intended for convenience. With this new network of devices, you can rest assured that you will be able to locate your missing gadgets quickly and easily. This is a positive development for consumers who have struggled in the past with finding lost devices.

Overall, the updated Find My Device platform is a step in the right direction for Google. It is good to see that the company is keeping up with its competitors and prioritizing privacy in the process. As the platform expands, we can expect to see more features and functionality added in the future.