Speculations are rife that Google is set to unveil its own version of Apple’s AirTags and the Find My network at Google IO 2023. The latest rumours indicate that Google’s system, possibly named the Finder Network, will not only support its own Bluetooth tracker but also third-party devices, including Pebblebee, Eufy, and Chipolo. This development comes as welcome news for Android users who have long awaited a comparable solution to Apple’s AirTags.
One significant advantage of Google’s rumoured Finder Network is the wide range of Bluetooth trackers that Android users will have access to. With the operating system’s Fast Pair standard for seamless connectivity to nearby Bluetooth devices, Android users can expect a smooth and efficient experience when pairing their devices with these trackers.
Moreover, the sheer number of Android devices worldwide, surpassing three billion according to Google’s figures, presents a massive potential for the success of the Finder Network. Similar to Apple’s “Find My” network, Google’s system is expected to utilize the Bluetooth connections of nearby Android users to locate lost items that are offline or out of Bluetooth range. This approach could position Google’s offering as a formidable competitor to Apple’s AirTags and Find My system.
One possible requirement for optimal performance with these new Android-based trackers could be a relatively recent Android device equipped with Ultra-wideband (UWB) connectivity. Devices such as the Google Pixel 7 Pro or Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, which support UWB, offer enhanced location accuracy compared to Bluetooth alone. While non-UWB devices may still work with the Android trackers, they might not achieve the same level of tracking precision.
The potential launch of Google’s rumoured Bluetooth tracker at Google IO 2023, commencing on May 10, is expected to be a highlight for Android enthusiasts. As the event unfolds, it will undoubtedly shed more light on this long-awaited development and provide further insights into how it could revolutionize item tracking for Android users.
