Yesterday, Google finally launched its new Find My Device network after a delay caused by Apple’s addition of unwanted tracker protection to iOS. The new Find My Device network by Google includes over a billion active devices worldwide, making it easier to track them down.
One particularly interesting feature is the ability to track a Pixel 8 or Pixel 8 Pro even when they are turned off or have no battery. Since the announcement, many have wondered if this useful feature will be available on other smartphones in the future. The answer is a resounding “yes, finally.”
Google is collaborating with other smartphone manufacturers and chipset manufacturers to bring this functionality to other handsets in the future. Initially, the feature will be available on premium Android smartphones before becoming available on more affordable options.
Specialized hardware on the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro enables the finding of devices with dead batteries by powering the Bluetooth chip even when the devices are turned off. Google is encouraging other manufacturers to adopt this approach.
It is unclear which premium Android smartphones will receive this feature after the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. Additionally, it is uncertain if older Pixel models will receive the update. Google’s statements do not clarify if existing phones, other than the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, have the necessary hardware for this feature or if we will have to wait for next-generation products.