Apple's AirTags have set a high standard in the smart tracker market, thanks to their Ultra-Wideband (UWB) functionality, which allows iPhone users to locate and pinpoint the AirTags and attached items precisely. This level of precision is something regular Bluetooth trackers can't match.
While this advanced feature is exclusive to iPhone users, Android has a competitive alternative that can match it on its Find My app.
Android Alternatives: Samsung's SmartTag 2
For Android users, Samsung's SmartTag 2 offers a viable alternative, providing precise UWB finding. However, this feature is only available when used with Galaxy devices that support UWB.
When paired with non-Galaxy Android devices, the SmartTag 2 is limited to Bluetooth tracking, which doesn't offer the same level of precision.
Related Article : Life360 Chooses Satellite Connectivity Over Apple, Google Partnerships for Tile Trackers
Google's Find My Network Expansion
Google has recently started rolling out its Find My network, similar to Apple's Find My. According to Android Police, this network allows Android devices within the Find My Device network to ping the location of lost or stolen devices.
Given Android's larger global market share compared to iOS, this network has the potential for broader reach. However, the absence of UWB-enabled precision finding makes it less effective than Apple's Find My network.
Current UWB Support in Android Devices
Currently, UWB support is available to limited devices including the Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel Fold, Xiaomi Mix 4, and the Motorola Edge 50 Ultra.
Despite this, the lack of UWB support in Google's Find My network means these devices rely on Bluetooth for tracker finding.
Most of Samsung's Plus and Ultra models since the S21 series also support UWB, but are limited to using the SmartTag 2 for UWB tracking.
Potential UWB Integration in Google's Find My Network
According to an APK teardown by Android Authority, Google appears to be working on integrating UWB support into its Find My network.
The Find My Device v3.1.078-1 app update includes hidden code lines mentioning UWB, marking the first time such mentions have appeared in the app. Although there's no official rollout date, this development suggests that UWB support could be on the horizon.
More Android Handsets Could Receive UWB Support
The addition of UWB support in Google's Find My network could lead to a wider variety of new trackers featuring UWB. This, in turn, might encourage more Android phones to include UWB support, enhancing precise tracker finding capabilities, enabling phones to be used as car keys, and integrating with smart home devices. Such advancements could help Google's Find My network surpass Apple's current lead.
Augmented Reality Integration
According to Gadgets 360, the APK teardown also revealed code related to ARCore, Google's augmented reality SDK. This hints at the possibility of features similar to Google Maps' Live View being integrated into Google's Find My tracking. This feature would allow users to use their phone's camera to view AR overlays of directions to locate UWB-enabled trackers.
While Samsung's SmartTag 2 already offers a similar feature with specific Galaxy devices, Google's integration could expand this capability to a broader range of Android devices.
The Future of Smart Trackers
While the addition of UWB mentions in Google's Find My app is a promising development, it doesn't guarantee immediate support.
Google's silence on the matter suggests that broad support might still be some time away. However, as the tech giant continues to develop its Find My network and potentially integrate UWB support, the future of smart trackers for Android users looks increasingly promising. This evolution could eventually position Google's Find My network as a formidable competitor to Apple's established system.
