Google recently introduced the Find My Device network, which has been available for about a month. An important feature for the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro was highlighted in a blog post from Google on April 8.
It stated that these top-tier smartphones can be located through the Find My Device system even if they are turned off or their batteries have run out. As the network becomes more popular among Android users, Google is now explaining to owners of the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro how this feature operates.
Google has provided details in a support document about the duration for which Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro devices can still send location data after they are powered off or their battery dies.
The document mentions, “For devices that are supported, such as the Pixel 8 series, the Find My Device network can continue to track the phone for a few hours even after it has been turned off or the battery has run out,” according to the company.
Google’s support document mentions the Pixel 8 series generally, but it does not specify if the Pixel 8a will include this feature. Previously, only the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro were mentioned as supported devices when this functionality was discussed.
However, these documents might have been created before the Pixel 8a was announced. According to Mishaal Rahman, it’s possible that support for the Pixel 8a could be added later.
9to5Google noticed the notification that Google is sending to Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro users. The notification mainly provides information, informing users about the availability of the Find My Device feature.
It’s important for users to know about this feature so they can use it when necessary. By clicking the ‘Learn more’ button in the notification, users can find additional details about how to locate their phone offline, such as Google’s advice to keep Bluetooth and Location turned on before the phone powers off.
If you have joined the Find My Device network, your Pixel 8 or Pixel 8 Pro will automatically send its location if it turns off or the battery runs out. But, changing the standard settings could affect this.
Google offers four choices for tracking a device when it’s offline: Off, Without network, With network only in busy areas (this is the default setting), and With network everywhere.
To change your setting, go to the settings app and follow these steps: Google > All services > Find My Device. Next, click on Find your offline devices and choose from one of the four options mentioned. Remember, only the last two options will allow your Pixel 8 or Pixel 8 Pro to be found when it’s offline.
This feature is most useful in the hours right after your phone is turned off or its battery dies. It can be especially helpful if your phone is lost or stolen, as it prevents someone from turning off the phone to stop it from being tracked. Currently, this feature is available only on the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, but Google’s statements suggest that it might extend to the Pixel 8a in the future.
What we think?
I think this feature will become really popular because it’s super helpful if you lose your phone or if someone steals it. Even if your phone turns off or the battery dies, it can still send its location for a few hours.
This could really help you find your phone quickly. It’s cool that Google might add this feature to the Pixel 8a too. It sounds like a great safety tool.
