Title: Google’s Upcoming Powered Off Finding API in Android 15: A Game Changer for Misplaced Devices
Losing an Android phone or having it go missing can be a hassle, especially when the device is switched off. Google’s Find My Device system has proven to be helpful, but it does have its limitations, particularly when the phone isn’t connected to the internet. To address this issue, Google is introducing a new Powered Off Finding API with Android 15 [1]. This feature has been making waves in the tech community, with Android Police [2] shedding some light on its potential capabilities.
The Powered Off Finding API is designed to help locate devices even when they’re switched off. It does this by storing pre-computed Bluetooth beacons within the memory of the Bluetooth controller [3]. The system requires specialized hardware to power the Bluetooth controller, allowing it to function even when the phone is completely powered off. A small reserve of battery may also be necessary for this feature to operate efficiently [3].
Initial rumors suggested that this feature might debut with the Pixel 9. However, a recent report from Android Police indicates that the Pixel 8 could also benefit from it upon updating to Android 15 [2].
Implementing this feature comes with certain requirements. Apart from the necessary hardware, significant software engineering efforts are needed to support the Bluetooth Finder HAL (Hardware Abstraction Layer) [2]. Users must also ensure they’ve updated their devices to Android 15 and have the latest version of Google’s Find My Device system installed.
Unfortunately, not all devices will be able to take advantage of this functionality. Older models like the Pixel Fold, Pixel 7 series, and Pixel 6 series are less likely to receive it due to either hardware or software limitations [2]. However, there’s a possibility that this feature could be extended to select older devices in the future, particularly for recent high-end models like the Pixel Fold.
To sum up, the Powered Off Finding API is an innovative solution to a common problem: locating misplaced or lost Android devices, even when they’re switched off. Although it requires specialized hardware and software support, the potential benefits make it a game changer in device tracking technology.
References:
[1] Google’s Android 15 to Introduce Powered Off Finding API for Lost Phones (TechRadar, 2023)
[2] Google’s Android 15 to Introduce Powered Off Finding API for Lost Phones: Here’s What We Know So Far (Android Police, 2023)
[3] How Google’s Powered Off Finding API Works for Locating Misplaced Android Devices (Tom’s Hardware, 2023)