In May 2023, Google announced something new for Find My Device, aka Locate my device in French. In particular, we learned of the upcoming arrival of the location of switched off devices. Good news, Android Police shared new information on this subject this Thursday.
In a blog post, the media highlights having discovered Google APIs called Powered off Finder. Thanks to the latter, the Mountain View firm will allow compatible smartphones and tablets to send Bluetooth signals to surrounding devices, even when they are out of battery, in order to locate them.
Android Police emphasizes that these APIs can only be used under Android 15. “The device must have hardware support to power the Bluetooth controller when other components are turned off. Additionally, device manufacturers must do additional engineering work to support this feature”, adds the site.
On the compatibility side, we learn that the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, as well as the future Pixel 8a, will answer the call. According to Android Police, Google is waiting for the Pixel 9 to announce this new feature. We would therefore have to wait until October 2024, when the company lifts the veil on its new high-end smartphones.
Google I/O on May 14 will also allow you to learn more about the expected improvements for the Find My Device network.