Google's Android beta device search feature exposed: supports network and car search platforms

Google said it is preparing to upgrade the "Find My Device" system by introducing crowdsourced data to gain the ability to anonymously find lost devices with the help of other Android devices. Normally, Google usually conducts internal testing in a "dogfooding" phase before releasing an application or related update to the public. This week, someone broke the news about an early version of the new "Find My Device" feature.

With the help of the JEB Decompiler decompilation tool, 9to5Google was able to disassemble and analyze the APK installation package of version 2.4.043_df of Google's "Find My Device" application.

Considering that this is a preview version that is not released to the public, the functions and UI design of the official version may still undergo major changes.

In fact, as early as June, foreign media had already noticed that Google was developing content related to the "lost object network". With the support of the crowdsourcing network, this system can be used to better find users' lost Android devices.

Previously, Apple's Find My locator network and AirTags smart trackers have attracted considerable attention. Google's default installation of this feature on every Android device is also expected to attract more volunteers.

By analyzing the code, 9to5Google found many text tags related to "spot":

 <string name =”spot_mark_as_lost_suggestion”>Try marking the device as lost to get crowdsourced assistance in finding it.</string>

It can be seen that after completing the settings in the device search app, any Android phone or tablet marked as lost can be collected by the Bluetooth wireless connection of other Android devices that happen to pass by and reported to the crowdsourcing lost network:

 <string name ="spot_ring_failed_device_error">The device is   in range of your Android(s), but is failing to respond properly.</string>

By submitting lost property search information anonymously, the owner can receive corresponding notification reminders through the "Find My Device" service without revealing the identity of the volunteer information collector.

 <string name ="spot_ring_failed_not_in_range">The device is   out   of range of your Android(s).</string>

If the owner is within the signal coverage of the lost device, the device can be further located by ringing the phone.

Another feature of the new software is the ability to "share" device ownership with other people, which is very practical for corporate customers.

In addition, for large families with multiple members, the device sharing function can also make it easier for them to find Android mobile devices such as tablets.

Finally, the new version of Android’s “Find My Device” service can also cover the usage scenarios of the Android Auto car platform.

Although the service relies primarily on a smartphone paired with Android Automotive, users will also be able to encrypt their vehicle to protect personal data and settings through the Find My Device app after the vehicle is stolen.

Even if the vehicle is temporarily offline, the relevant settings will be locked the next time it goes online, and users can choose to remotely delete personal data and custom settings (you can log in to your Google account to perform relevant operations).