Find My Device App Expands Support for Directional Tracking
The Find My Device app on Android has recently gained new significance with the introduction of a network designed to help users locate smartphones, trackers, and other items. However, one notable absence in the app has been the utilization of UWB (Ultra-Wideband) technology. Fortunately, it appears that the Find My Device app is now addressing this limitation.
About APK Insight: In this “APK Insight” post, we’ve decompiled the latest version of an application that Google uploaded to the Play Store. When we decompile these files (called APKs, in the case of Android apps), we’re able to see various lines of code within that hint at possible future features. Keep in mind that Google may or may not ever ship these features, and our interpretation of what they are may be imperfect. We’ll try to enable those that are closer to being finished, however, to show you how they’ll look in case that they do ship. With that in mind, read on.
Currently, the Find My Device app assists users in locating a nearby tracker by utilizing Bluetooth and other nearby devices to indicate proximity to the device. While it doesn’t provide directional tracking, it does narrow down the search area significantly. The app’s user interface also allows users to trigger a sound when the tracker is nearby.
However, Google seems to have some innovative plans in the pipeline.
In the latest update rolling out to the Find My Device app (v3.1.078-1), there are indications that Google is working on expanding support for directional tracking. Strings within the app suggest the use of AR Core, which enables Android apps to leverage AR features using the device’s camera. This could potentially allow for an overlay to aid in locating nearby trackers.
While this feature may not be beneficial for existing Bluetooth trackers, it could prove to be valuable for trackers equipped with UWB technology, such as those from Samsung and Apple. References to UWB technology were discovered in the app update, hinting at its potential integration in the future.
Although these features are not yet live in the Find My Device app, the groundwork seems to be laid for future enhancements. The addition of “Location History” in the update also suggests further improvements in tracking capabilities.
Overall, the Find My Device app appears to be evolving to provide more advanced tracking functionalities, catering to the needs of users with UWB-equipped trackers.
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