Google's Find My Device network for Android has made remarkable strides since its initial launch. Initially criticized for its slow performance compared to competitors like Apple and Samsung, recent updates indicate that the network is now operating at a significantly improved speed. According to Google, the Find My Device network is now four times faster at locating lost items, a claim supported by internal testing results.
When the Find My Device network first entered the market, it quickly became evident that it struggled to match the efficiency of its competitors. A notable incident involved a user who sent both an AirTag and a Pebblebee tracker through the mail, only to find that the Android tracker failed to reach its destination. This highlighted the network's early shortcomings in tracking accuracy and speed.
Since those early days, Google has committed to enhancing the performance of its Find My Device network. As we reported earlier this year, improvements in tracking speed have been noticeable. For instance, testing with a Moto Tag revealed that it could be recognized and updated in the app more swiftly than an AirTag. While inconsistencies and other issues still exist, the overall trend points to progress.
In a recent conversation with The Verge, Google confirmed that the Find My Device network is indeed four times faster than at its launch. This upgrade specifically pertains to the speed at which items are located and updated within the app. Google attributes these advancements to “continuous algorithm and technical under-the-hood improvements,” which involve optimizing the frequency and duration of Bluetooth scanning. These changes facilitate better communication between devices and trackers.
Another crucial development is the increasing number of users who are opting to change their default privacy settings within the Find My Device network. Google reported that more users are shifting away from the default settings, which were initially designed to function primarily in “high-traffic” areas. By allowing the network to operate in “all areas,” users can benefit from improved tracking capabilities. Google has been promoting this change within the app since last year, although “high-traffic” remains the default setting.
Google has also hinted at exciting developments on the horizon, particularly regarding Ultra-Wideband (UWB) support, which is expected to be announced soon. While it is unclear if this new feature will roll out immediately, speculation suggests that Google may unveil more information during the upcoming Google I/O event. Currently, the Moto Tag is the sole Find My Device tracker equipped with UWB technology.
A recent analysis conducted by The Verge compared the performance of Google's Find My Device network against Apple’s Find My and Tile networks. The conclusion was that while improvements have been made, Google’s network still falls short of Apple’s capabilities in terms of effectively locating lost items. This disparity is attributed to Google's focus on privacy, which has inadvertently limited the network's functionality.
In summary, Google's Find My Device network has made significant improvements in tracking speed and user engagement since its inception. While challenges remain, the ongoing enhancements and increased user awareness of privacy settings are promising signs of progress. As Google prepares for future announcements, including potential updates on UWB support, users can look forward to an even more robust tracking experience.
For those interested in exploring compatible trackers, options such as Chipolo's colorful trackers and affordable devices priced at just $18 are available, enhancing the utility of the Find My Device network.
