You can now locate a misplaced Android smartphone without using the Internet

Google has unveiled its version of Apple Find My, a program designed to help locate misplaced iPhones. A "SOS signal" will ring on certain Pixel series devices even in the event of a power outage. It functions without an Internet connection. Company representatives provided the essential information about the new technology.

In 2023, the new search technique was initially revealed at Google I/O. The way it works is that every Android smartphone will get trained to "catch" other devices' locations and send the coordinates to the "Find Device" web service. In this instance, the location of the misplaced device will only be accessible to its owner.

For instance, when two smartphones connect over Bluetooth, the first will transmit encrypted location data to the cloud. 

The second device will do the same after a few meters, and so on indefinitely. Consequently, even in the event that the gadget is misplaced and cut off from the Internet and cellular network, the user will be able to locate it through the use of a recognizable web map.

Furthermore, even when they are off, the premium Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro are still available. The Bluetooth module of smartphones is used to accomplish this function, which guarantees that the "beacon" will remain operational for a number of hours. Find My Device was once limited to devices that had an Internet connection because it only connected to online devices.

Currently, the service's updated version is only accessible in the United States and Canada. Chipolo and Pebblebee trackers will join the global search network in May, followed by JBL and Sony headphones later in the month and Motorola, Jio, and Eufy devices at the end of the year. These additions to the Android devices will occur later in the year. The smart display known as Google Nest Hub will also be "informant." You can use it to locate a misplaced gadget in your house.

According to Google, the upgraded service will stop you from requesting your location too frequently. In order to prevent the service from being exploited for personal spying purposes, this limitation has been put in place. The service is compatible with Android 9 and later mobile operating systems.