device network Archives

AppWizard

April 27, 2025

Google’s Find My Device network for Android now 4x faster

Google is expected to announce an update regarding Ultra-Wideband (UWB) support for its Android Find My Device network. Currently, the Moto Tag is the only tracker in this ecosystem with integrated UWB hardware, which enhances location accuracy. The specifics of the update are unclear, and it may be revealed at the upcoming Google I/O event.

AppWizard

February 12, 2025

This app will bring Galaxy SmartTag to all Android phones, assuming Samsung doesn’t shut it down

Samsung's Galaxy SmartTag is effective for item tracking, often outperforming Google’s Find My Device network, but is limited to Samsung Galaxy devices. A new app called “uTag” allows Galaxy SmartTags to be used with other Android smartphones by bypassing the device verification process. The app provides features such as item tracking on a map, location history, and ringing control, and can utilize Ultra Wideband technology for precise tracking. Users can enable integration with Samsung's network, receive alerts for unknown trackers, and access homescreen widgets. The app requires a Samsung account, which could pose concerns if Samsung intervenes. While Galaxy SmartTags are affordable, investing in them solely for use with “uTag” may be risky due to the app's uncertain longevity.

AppWizard

September 19, 2024

Find My Device by Google might get a compass for more accurate tracking

Google has introduced an update to its Find My Device app for Android, version 3.1.148, which includes a new "compass" feature that provides directional guidance for locating lost devices. This feature is part of a strategy to incorporate Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology into the app, allowing for more precise tracking compared to traditional Bluetooth. While these features are not yet operational, their presence in the code indicates a future rollout. The integration of UWB technology is expected to enhance the app's tracking capabilities and improve user experience.

AppWizard

September 17, 2024

Find My Device prepares a ‘compass’ for finding trackers, likely for UWB support

Google's Find My Device network is set to receive enhancements, including the integration of Ultra-Wideband (UWB) tracker support and a new "compass" feature in the latest app update (version 3.1.148). This compass feature will provide directional prompts to help users locate their devices, such as “Turn left,” “Turn right,” and “The device is behind you.” It aims to improve the existing functionality for locating Bluetooth trackers, which currently has limited precision. However, initial tests indicate that this new functionality is not yet operational.

AppWizard

August 8, 2024

Moto Tag is the first Find My Device Android tracker that asks for its own app

Google's Find My Device network is evolving with the introduction of the Moto Tag, the first Ultra-Wideband (UWB) tracker for this network. The Moto Tag requires users to download a dedicated app, unlike other Find My Device trackers such as Chipolo and Pebblebee, which work directly through the existing Find My Device app. The Moto Tag app allows users to pair the tracker, play sounds, and access location tracking features. A notable feature is the ability to find a misplaced phone by double-tapping the tracker’s button, which triggers a sound on the phone if it is within Bluetooth range. While the Moto Tag app enhances user experience with firmware updates and phone-locating capabilities, it introduces a complication by requiring an additional app, which may frustrate users who prefer a streamlined solution.

AppWizard

August 7, 2024

Moto Tag is the first Find My Device tracker that needs its own Android app

Motorola has introduced the Moto Tag, a UWB tracker that is the first Find My Device tracker requiring a separate app for full functionality. Unlike competitors Chipolo and Pebblebee, which integrate with Google’s Find My Device app, the Moto Tag necessitates the download of a dedicated Moto Tag app for pairing and accessing features such as playing a sound on the tracker and locating the device. The app is available on the Play Store, and the Moto Tag can be purchased for .99 or .99 for a four-pack. However, the UWB feature is not yet operational.

AppWizard

June 25, 2024

‘App Lock’ Coming to Samsung’s Android 15 Update Alongside Secure Folder Feature

App Lock is a new feature coming to Samsung phones via the Android 15 update, allowing users to put a passcode or biometric lock on specific apps to prevent unauthorized access.

AppWizard

June 20, 2024

Google’s June System updates bring better data transfers and device security

Google has rolled out patches for its Play Systems for Android users in June, which include security and privacy fixes, Play Protect improvements, and an "auto-lock" feature for lost or stolen devices. Pixel phones also received a June security patch earlier in the month with fixes for user-reported issues.

AppWizard

June 16, 2024

How to locate your lost or stolen Android phone or tablet even if its offline

To add your device to the Find My Device network, open the Find My Device app and sign in to your Google account. If you don't see the option to add the device, go to Settings, tap on Google, then Find My Device, and toggle the option to 'With network in high-traffic areas only' or 'With network in all areas'.