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Google Pixel smartphones to support location detection even after being switched off

The Pixel 7 Pro is likely to support Google's new 'Power-off Finder' functionality, courtesy of Android 14. (Image source: Google)
The Pixel 7 Pro is likely to support Google's new 'Power-off Finder' functionality, courtesy of Android 14. (Image source: Google)
According to new leaks, Google is developing an alternative to Apple's Find My network. Possibly starting with Android 14, people will be able to track lost Pixel devices even when they are powered off. The functionality should even extend to when these devices have run out of battery too.

91mobiles and Kuba Wojciechowski have discovered new references to a new feature that Google is currently developing for Pixel smartphones. Purportedly, Google is working towards integrating 'Find My Device' functionality that works even when the device is switched turned off. In short, it seems that Google is planning on aping Apple, which already offers a comparable feature across its product stack.

According to the pair, Google will market its 'Find My' alternative as 'Pixel Power-off Finder'. Thus, it should soon be possible to locate lost devices even after they run out of power, courtesy of Bluetooth Low Energy signals. While its name suggests that it could be a Pixel smartphone exclusive, it may well be available to non-Pixel smartphones via its deep integration within Android 14.

As it stands, the functionality is expected to launch with Android 14. Hence, Pixel Power-off Finder should debut during next month's Google I/O 2023 conference, where the company is also rumoured to release the Pixel 7a, Pixel Tablet and even the Pixel Fold. Fittingly, Google is rumoured to have developed an AirTag alternative, codenamed 'Grogu'. Google appears to be following a similar tactic with Apple's 'Handoff' too, which will be available on the Pixel Tablet.

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > News > News Archive > Newsarchive 2023 04 > Google Pixel smartphones to support location detection even after being switched off
Alex Alderson, 2023-04- 7 (Update: 2024-04-11)