Latest news with #AngelaHsiao
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Business Standard
28-04-2025
- Business Standard
Soon, Google's Find My Device to support accessories with ultra-wideband
Google is reportedly preparing to add support for ultra-wideband (UWB) to its Find My Device network, enabling users to locate supported devices with much greater accuracy. The US-based technology giant has confirmed to The Verge that UWB support is coming 'very soon.' Currently, the Moto Tag — launched recently — is the only tracker on the Find My Device network that features UWB hardware. However, its precise tracking capabilities remain largely unusable because Android's Find My Device network has yet to enable UWB functionality. Speaking to The Verge, Android product manager Angela Hsiao said that UWB support would arrive 'very soon,' bringing much more precise location tracking. In addition to UWB support, Google has reportedly improved the overall speed and reliability of the Find My Device network. According to the company's internal testing, the network is now four times faster at locating and updating device locations compared to when it first launched. These improvements come from 'continuous algorithm and technical under-the-hood enhancements," including better Bluetooth scanning patterns that make it easier for devices and trackers to communicate. Google also noted that more users are now adjusting their default privacy settings to allow Find My Device to operate in 'all areas' instead of just "high-traffic" zones. This expanded participation further strengthens the network's effectiveness. What is UWB Ultra-Wideband (UWB) is a short-range wireless communication technology that enables high-precision positioning. UWB is increasingly being added to smartphones and tracking devices for use cases like loss prevention. It uses very low power while achieving high bandwidth over distances of up to 50 meters. By combining two key signals — "Time of Flight" (ToF) and "Time Difference of Arrival" (TDoA) — UWB can calculate a device's location accurately.
Hindustan Times
28-04-2025
- Hindustan Times
Google to introduce UWB support for Android Find My Device with 4x speed boost: Report
Google is set to introduce a key update to its Android Find My Device network, which promises to give faster and more precise tracking. According to the company, the network can now locate lost items four times faster than when it first launched. This improvement follows last year's significant update that enhanced third-party tracker support and offline location access, and it appears another important feature is on the horizon. UWB Technology Coming Soon Android product manager Angela Hsiao revealed in an interview with The Verge that ultra-wideband (UWB) technology will soon be added to Find My Device. UWB will allow users to track lost devices with greater accuracy, much like how Apple's ecosystem works with AirTags. With UWB support, users will be able to pinpoint the exact location of a device, such as finding it behind a couch rather than just in a room. Currently, only the Moto Tag tracker supports UWB on the Android network, but several Android phones, including the Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 7 Pro, and Pixel 8 Pro, already feature the technology. Also read: Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge launch date, pre-order, sale, and more tipped- Details Google I/O Recent code updates within Find My Device hinted at the upcoming addition of UWB, which signals that the feature's launch is imminent. The feature could potentially be highlighted during Google I/O 2025, which is scheduled to take place on May 20. Google has not confirmed the exact date for the UWB rollout, but it seems that it will be available soon. Also read: Motorola Edge 60, Edge 60 Pro with 50MP camera launched globally; India launch imminent According to the reports by The Verge also suggests that the Find My Device network is already performing comparably to Apple's tracking system in areas with high gadget traffic. However, in more remote locations, the tracking accuracy and coverage are less reliable, with results varying depending on the type of tracker and location. While Google does not yet offer its own version of the Apple AirTags, rumours indicate that such a product might be in development. Also read: POCO F7 may launch in late May, likely to be rebranded Redmi Turbo 4 Pro: Here's what to expect Hsiao noted that Google's internal testing shows that the network is now able to locate items around four times faster than before, thanks to the improvements introduced in the 2024 update. While it's not yet on par with Apple's system, Google continues to enhance the network's performance. To use UWB effectively, users will need a compatible phone, and many of the latest Android devices, including the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra and the Google Pixel 9 Pro, now support the technology. First Published Date: 28 Apr, 11:54 IST
