Google’s ‘Find My Device’ feature to work even when your phone is off

Google is reportedly working on a “Find My Device” feature for Android devices. The alleged feature is said to be capable of locating a device even if it’s turned off. According to a report by 91Mobiles, the search giant is creating a vast network of all Android devices. The feature will include optional support for UWB, locater tags akin to Apple AirTags.

The feature will reportedly be called Pixel Power-off Finder, at least on Pixel phones. To leverage this feature effectively, the Bluetooth chip should always remain activated.

Google taking cues from Apple’s “Find My Device”

Apple’s ‘Find My Device’ network is remarkable, as it enables users to locate their lost or stolen iPhone, iPad, Mac, or AirTag even if switched off. Now, leaker Kuba Wojciechowski has revealed (via 91Mobiles) that Google has a similar feature in store. In December 2022, Google offered a sneak peek of a similar feature that can track missing Android phones even without internet connectivity.

The leaker revealed that Google has shared the early source code of Android 14 with OEMs that are a part of the Early Access Program (EAP). He also revealed that Google also has an Apple AirTags-like tag codenamed “grogu” in the works.

Leaked source code reveals Google’s plans

The leaked source code contains a fresh Hardware Abstraction Layer (HAL) definition with the string “hardware.google.bluetooth.power_off_finder.” The code implies that the Bluetooth chip of the device will remain enabled at all times, allowing users to locate their device using the precomputed Finger Network keys.

It remains to be seen whether existing devices, such as the Pixel 6 and Pixel 7, have the necessary hardware to facilitate the technology. However, the upcoming Pixel 8 will likely feature built-in support for the alleged feature.

If this is the direction Google intends to take for its new Android devices, we might see the tech soon. The company might spill more beans about the feature and the hardware capabilities at I/O 2023, slated to take place on May 10.