Google is currently developing Android 15, with the first developer preview available for download. The upcoming Android OS will bring a feature that will allow Android phone users to locate their phones even when switched off. However, the feature has some hardware requirements, meaning some Android devices might not support it even with Android 15.
Google will introduce a new Powered Off Finding API with Android 15. It will allow locating compatible phones even when they are powered off. This feature has some hardware requirements, meaning select Android phones will support it. The Google Pixel 9 is expected to debut with this feature. Of course, the device will run Android 15 outside of the box. Interestingly, the Pixel 8 series is on course to support the new API with Android 15.
While the Pixel 9 series will officially debut the feature with full support of the hardware requirements, the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro will get the support with the Android 15 upgrade. It’s fair to assume that the Pixel 8a will support the feature. Unfortunately, the Pixel 7 and Pixel 6 series won’t be getting the feature, according to available information. The Pixel Fold looks like it will miss out, but we hope Google rectifies that soon.
How will Android phone users locate their phone when it’s switched off?
To make it possible to locate powered-off Android phones, Google will introduce a new API with Android 15. The Powered Off Finding API will be responsible for locating your powered-off devices. It will allow the device to store pre-computed Bluetooth beacons in the memory of the Bluetooth controller. With the help of additional specialized hardware, supported devices can power the Bluetooth controller even when the phone is off
Also, the device needs to support Bluetooth Finder Hardware Layer (HAL) while running the latest Find My Device network, which is probably coming with Android 15.
According to reports, the Powered Off Finding System API will be utilized by Google Play services, meaning Google will release support in Play Services. They have been working on that for some time and adding UI support directly to Android.
Will Other Android devices support the Powered Off Finding feature?
Since it’s an Android 15 feature, any Android phone that fulfills all the requirements will support it. We expect other OEMs to do the software work required for their phones to support the feature once Google makes an official announcement. We believe that will come during the Pixel 9 presentation, but we might get some ideas during the May 2024 I/O event.
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