After the feature settings began to be rolled out to select Android device owners, Google sent an email containing the launch date of the Find My Device network.
Officially announced last year, Google's Find My Device network is designed to tap into the vast number of Android devices to help locate lost phones, headphones, and trackers. However, the network was delayed while Google and Apple worked together on an industry standard that would help ensure this location technology can't be used to maliciously track someone else's movements, something that was an issue for Android users after Apple launched AirTag in 2021.
To the benefit of iPhone owners, Google has held up its network launch until Apple can implement this protection into iOS, something that appears to have finally happened in iOS 17.5 (although the standard has been ready since December 2023).
This week, things are starting to look like the Find My Device network will be launching soon. All settings are starting to appear for those who have signed up for the Google Play Services beta. However, the feature itself doesn't seem to be working.
Starting Thursday morning, Google sent an email to some users informing them that the Find My Device network will be launching soon. The company began by explaining the basic advantages of the network:
With the new Find My Device network, you'll be able to locate your devices even if they're offline. You can also find any compatible Fast Pair accessories when detached from your device. This includes compatible earbuds and headphones and trackers that you can attach to your wallet, keys, or bike.
More importantly, in the concluding paragraph of the email, Google explains that the network will be launched “within three days.” This makes the Find My Device network launch on Sunday, April 7, or more likely Monday, April 8. This came less than a year after the initial announcement.
You will receive a notification on Android devices when this feature is turned on within 3 days. Until then, you can opt out of the network through Find My Device on the web.
However, it appears that Google has not shared this release date anywhere else, and only one member of our team received this email. It's possible that the email was sent incorrectly and the date listed may be wrong, but given the context of the Settings rollout and iOS developments, it looks like we're finally ready to get started.
a connection Including it in the email allows users to opt out of network capabilities early. However, this seems to be account dependent. It worked for our team member who received the email, but not for others who had not yet received the same email from Google. However, it's important that Google mentions this, since the network appears to be turned on by default. When you choose a setting, Google notes that this applies to all Android devices linked to that Google Account.
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