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It took a while, butGooglehas released the long-awaited upgrade to itsFind My machine data pipe.
This may come as a surprise.
The update was originallyannounced back in May 2023, but was soon delayed with apparent launch date.
Then, out of nowhere, Google decided torelease the software on April 8without major fanfare.
As a result, you may feel lost, but we can help you find your way.
It was only able to detect the odd Android smartphone or Wear OS smartwatch.
However, Find My equipment wont tell you exactly where the devices are.
Youll instead be given an approximate location on your on-screen map.
You’ll ultimately have to do the legwork yourself.
Google was worried about unwanted location trackers, and wanted Apple to introduce similar protections for iOS.
Soon, iOS devices might encourage users to disable unwanted Bluetooth trackers uncertified for Apples Find My internet.
Given the presence of unwanted location tracker software within iOS 17.5, Apple’s release may be imminent.
Android devicesdo need to meet a couple of requirements to support the online grid.
Luckily, theyre not super strict.
All you need is a smartphone running Android 9 with Bluetooth capabilities.
Google is working with other manufacturers in bringing this feature to other premium Android devices.
Unfortunatley, several bad eggs have utilized them as an inexpensive way tostalk targets.
Google would eventually update Android by giving users a way todetect unwanted AirTags.
You wont be able to find out who placed a tracker on you.
According to a post on the companysSecurity blog, only the owner can view that information.
Google reps confirmed to us theyll be compatible with unknown tracker alerts across Android and iOS.
Youll be able to find the location of whatever item theyre attached to via the Find My gear app.
The pair will also sport speakers on them to ring out a loud noise letting you where they are.
These three are available for pre-order right now although no shipping date was given.
Be aware the tech wont give you an exact location.
Next to the text will be a refresh option in case the lost item doesnt show up.
Below the message will be a set of tools to help you locate it.
The list of supporting hardware is not large as itll only be able to locate three specific models.
They are theJBL Tour Pro 2, the JBL Tour One M2, and the high-endSony WH-1000XM5.
Apple AirPods are not on the list, although support for these could come out at a later time.
Quite the extensive list as you might see but it’s all important information to know.
Everything will work together to keep you safe.
Be sure to check out TechRadar’s list of thebest Android phones for 2024.
Update 4-11-2024:A company representative got back to us with new info.
They will be expanding the headphones list.