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Google recently launched its Find My Device network, and it rivals Apple’s Find My network. While this is definitely a boon for Android users, it’s not without its caveats. We got news that the Find My Device on empty feature will be tied to pricey phones.
Android devices have had a Find My Device function for years. However, the newly launched network is different. Rather than relying on your device being connected to the internet, the Find My Device network will use a network of Bluetooth-connected Android devices to help you pinpoint your device’s location. It’s a very convenient way of tracking down your lost phone.
In fact, popular tracker companies like Chipolo will make their trackers compatible with the network in the coming weeks. We can also expect devices from companies such as Motorola.
Find My Device on empty will be tied to pricey phones
Along with the news about this Network, Google also announced a great feature to Find My Device network. You will be able to locate your device even if it’s on 0% battery. We’re not quite sure how this technology works, but it seems likely that the phone will still be able to transmit a Bluetooth signal even when it cannot power on. When a phone is dead, there’s still a fair amount of juice in the battery. This battery juice powers the phone’s internal clock among other things.
So, if your Pixel 8 Pro is lost in a diner, and it was on 1% battery when you lost it, you don’t have to worry about it dying before you find it. However, this feature is not without its caveats.
According to a new report, the Find My Device on empty feature will be available for your phone if it’s of the pricey category. Right now, the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro (Review) have the ability to ping other devices while powered off, but this is because of specialized hardware. So, this functionality remains inaccessible to most other phones.
But, this could change
The company plans to remedy this, as it said so in a statement. “We are working with other SoCs and OEMs on how we can bring the capability to find devices with dead batteries to additional premium Android devices,” a Google representative told Android Authority. The unfortunate thing is that the representative mentioned “additional premium” Android devices. The term “premium” could be a bit fluid. However, we’re certain that most phones under $800 will not receive this functionality.
Being able to locate a device that is powered off is a very nifty feature, but it is not make or break for the Find My Device network. So, most people will be able to enjoy it regardless.
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