Google launched its revamped Find My Device network about a year ago, bolstering it with enhanced security features like encrypted location sharing and unknown tracker alerts. However, it has lacked a key feature present in Apple’s Find My network: precise object tracking. That’s about to change.
In a recent interview with The Verge, Google executive Angela Hsiao hinted at an upcoming announcement regarding Ultra-Wideband (UWB) integration within the Find My Device ecosystem. While this isn’t the first hint of Google’s UWB plans, confirmation from a key executive adds weight to the anticipation.
What is UWB and Why Does it Matter?
Apple Find My network for finding lost objects running on an iPhone.
UWB is a short-range wireless communication protocol that uses pulse-based transmissions across a wide frequency range. This allows for highly accurate location tracking, often within centimeters. It’s significantly more precise than Bluetooth-based tracking, energy-efficient, and performs well indoors. Apple has incorporated UWB chips in its iPhones since the iPhone 11 and in its AirTag trackers.
This technology powers Apple’s “Find Nearby” feature, enabling users to locate misplaced items with impressive accuracy. The UWB signal not only estimates distance but also provides directional cues on the iPhone screen.
Precision Finding in Apple
With the iPhone 15’s next-generation UWB chip, Apple introduced “Precision Finding” for locating people, further showcasing the technology’s potential. It appears Android and the Google ecosystem are finally poised to leverage UWB’s benefits.
Evidence Mounts for Google’s UWB Integration
Mid-2024 saw code investigators uncover mentions of UWB within Google’s Find My Device app. Subsequent code discoveries revealed details about directional cues for object tracking. Android Authority recently unearthed further evidence of UWB-powered precision finding within the app. Google’s own developer documentation also features detailed information on UWB communication, further solidifying the likelihood of its imminent implementation.
Someone holding the Moto Tag.
However, UWB requires compatible hardware in both smartphones and trackers like the Moto Tag. Even Google’s Pixel 9 currently lacks a UWB chip. This is expected to change with upcoming flagship phones, thanks to Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC, which integrates Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and UWB hardware. While manufacturers won’t need a dedicated UWB chip, enabling the functionality remains their prerogative.
Looking Ahead
With Google I/O approaching, we anticipate the company will reveal more about its plans for Find My Device and its UWB enhancements. This upgrade could significantly improve the user experience, offering a level of precision tracking currently exclusive to Apple devices.
