San Francisco, California — Google’s efforts to enhance its Find My Device network for Android have begun to pay off, with the tech giant reporting a significant increase in the speed of tracking capabilities. Internal testing indicates that the network is now four times faster at locating devices compared to its initial launch.
When the Find My Device feature debuted, it faced swift criticism for lagging behind the competition offered by Apple and Samsung. In a notable comparison, one user reported that an AirTag and a Pebblebee tracker were sent through the mail, while the Android tracker failed to appear at its intended destination. This highlighted the early challenges faced by the system.
Since those early days, Google has focused on refining its tracking technology. Notable improvements have been observed, including quicker recognition and updates for devices like the Moto Tag, which, in certain tests, outpaced the AirTag in speed. However, while positive strides have been made, inconsistencies remain, reminding users that the system is still evolving.
According to Google, the recent improvements stem from ongoing upgrades to algorithms and technical aspects of the network. Adjustments made to Bluetooth scanning—covering frequency and duration—have enhanced the communication between devices and trackers. In addition, more users are reportedly opting out of default privacy settings, allowing the network to function effectively in a wider range of locations, rather than being limited to highly populated areas.
Google has been proactive in educating users about these privacy settings, aiming to promote a broader adaptability of the network. However, the default setting continues to restrict functionality to what Google describes as “high-traffic” areas.
Looking ahead, Google has hinted at upcoming details regarding Ultra-Wideband (UWB) support, but specifics on an official rollout remain unclear. With the Google I/O event imminent, industry watchers are keenly anticipating further announcements as the company continues to enhance its location tracking capabilities.
Despite these advancements, some industry experts caution that Google’s Find My Device network still lags behind competitors like Apple’s version when it comes to reliability. Observers note that Google’s commitment to prioritizing privacy may have inadvertently impacted the overall effectiveness of its tracking service, a subject that has prompted discussion in recent months.
As the landscape of device tracking continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how Google will address these challenges while enhancing user experience and maintaining security.