Apple devices can be tracked even when powered off. This crazy feature appears to be coming to Android soon as Google reportedly begins preparation. Samsung Galaxy devices may also receive the ‘Power Off Finder’ feature to let the owner track even when turned off.
According to 91mobiles, Google is preparing to bring the Power Off Finder feature to Android (or at least Pixel phones). The company is said to be building a huge network of all Android devices, including optional support or UWB, and locator tags and these include Google’s own tag codename “grogu” and more.
Ahead of its annual I/O event, Google has shared the early source code of Android 14 with OEMs that are enrolled in the Early Access Program (EAP). The source code includes a new Hardware Abstraction Layer (HAL) definition, called “hardware.google.bluetooth.power_off_finder.”
Going further with the code content, Android may add precomputed Finger Network keys to the device’s Bluetooth chip. Through this, the Bluetooth function will keep turned on even when the phone is powered off due to low battery or in case of theft.
Since the Power Off Finder feature requires hardware support to keep the Bluetooth chip-enabled all the time, it’s uncertain whether older Android devices may get it or not. It’s also possible that the company may debut this feature with Pixel 8 series and later share it with other Android models.
Samsung devices may also receive the useful Power Off Finder feature so Galaxy users can find their phone even when it’s powered off. At present, there’s no indication from either Google or Samsung regarding the under-development tracking function.
At the I/O 2023 next month, the US tech giant could start Android 14’s Public Beta program. It’s expected that the Beta build of the new OS would bring code content of hidden features alongside the finalized additions. For more information on the topics, stay connected with us via socials.
