Google is introducing new updates to its ‘unknown tracker alerts’ features. The new features will make it easier for Android device owners to detect unfamiliar trackers. On December 11, the company announced that it will bring two important updates to its tracker alert features.
Notably, the initial feature was introduced in July 2023. The safety feature has the ability to automatically send notifications if an unwanted Bluetooth tracker is traveling with you. Now, with ‘Temporarily Pause Location’ and the ‘Find Nearby,’ feature Google aims to update its safety structures. Let’s have a look at what it means for you.
What’s new
So, the first update is known as ‘Temporarily Pause Location’. This allows Android phone owners to temporarily stop sending location updates to the Find My Device network. This is applicable if the user finds that an unknown compatible tracker is tracking the user’s device. Google will pause your live location updates for up to 24 hours. This eventually makes your location hidden to whoever could be monitoring your location through the tag.
Second, you have the ‘Find Nearby’ feature. So, how does this feature work? Suppose you receive an unknown tracker alert. With the help of this feature you will be able to locate the unwanted Find My Device-compatible tracker. By tapping on the unknown tracker notification you’ll be able to see a map of where the tracker was last spotted moving with you. Now after tracking it you can play a sound to see if you can locate it. Google further highlighted that the owner won’t be notified about your action. Once you’ve found it, Google will also guide you with instructions on how to physically disable the tag.
Other updates
With the advancement in technologies, Bluetooth trackers have already made it a lot easier to find your lost/stolen bag and personal properties when they’re lost. However, sometimes these tools are also misused. They are used as inconspicuous tracking tools by the people who might misuse them. Apple and Google have both implemented tracker alerts to let you know if there’s an unknown Bluetooth tracker nearby.
Looks like by expanding Find Nearby Google is taking the final step needed to take to shut down Bluetooth tracker misuse. Well, Google is not the first tech giant to do so, Apple is already in this space with its Precision Finding tool for AirTags.
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