Google has announced that its Find My Device network for Android has become significantly faster, reportedly locating lost items four times quicker than when it first debuted. This update is encouraging for users who found the initial launch somewhat sluggish compared to competing services like Apple’s Find My and Samsung’s SmartThings Find.
Initially, Google’s crowdsourced network faced challenges with speed and reliability, often resulting in tracking delays. However, recent improvements have boosted performance, and Google has quantified this enhancement with the announcement of a fourfold increase in speed.
Behind this improvement, Google attributes advancements in algorithms and system functionality. One key change involves how often and how long nearby Android devices scan for Bluetooth trackers.
Enhanced scanning capabilities allow for faster communication and more immediate location updates within the app. Additionally, adjustments in privacy settings have played a role; more users have opted for “all areas” tracking rather than the default “high-traffic areas” setting, which has improved overall item location effectiveness.
This proactive prompting by Google appears to have contributed positively. In the competitive landscape of item tracking, Apple’s Find My network remains a dominant force, benefiting from a vast number of Apple devices and Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology.
Samsung is also a strong competitor with its SmartThings Find and SmartTags system. Google’s edge lies in the extensive global reach of Android devices, making the reliability and speed of its network critical.
Looking ahead, Google has hinted at the arrival of UWB support, a technology that enhances precision tracking by providing directional guidance and distance measurement. Currently, only the Moto Tag tracker uses UWB within the network, but several Pixel phones are equipped with this chip.
With anticipated updates at Google I/O, the addition of UWB could elevate the utility of Android trackers, providing consumers with a compelling alternative for locating lost items.