Google Begins to Rollout 'Unknown Tracker Alert' for Android

Google has announced to begin rolling out of the 'Unknown Tracker Alert' feature to Android 6.0+ users this month. The feature was announced on 10th May 2023 by Google through a blog post. It is an enhanced version of the Find My Device feature.

Till now find my device used to help users locate their misled devices with enabled location and internet connection. But as all devices are not capable of accessing location and some of them remain in offline mode it was a challenge to locate such devices. With a view to the same Google worked on Find My Device to make it easier and locate devices more seamlessly.

The improved version of the 'Find My Device' network will help users to find their lost devices even when they are in offline mode. The feature will keep them safe from unwanted Bluetooth tracking on Android. The new feature introduced by Google includes alerts for unknown tracking devices and a manual scan option to detect nearby trackers to provide an extra step of safety.

One of the new features is "Alerts for Unknown Tracking Devices" Users will be notified if their Android device finds an unidentified Bluetooth tracker nearby. You can check out a map showing the tracker's movements while it is nearby and access more information about it by tapping the notification. Upon receiving the notification or alert, users can gather details about the unknown tracking device and receive guidance accordingly to take the next step. Additionally, they can use the tracker's sound to assist them in locating it covertly without letting the owner notice.

Google also added the "Manual Scan" option as a new feature. It can be accessed by following the given steps:

• Go to 'Settings'
• Select 'Safety & Emergency'
• Select 'Unknown Tracker Alerts'
• Then tap the 'Scan Now' button

After following these steps users can access this capability. The manual scan creates a list of nearby trackers that are currently disconnected from their owner's device and it will take about 10 seconds to finish. Users can get more information on what to do by choosing one of the listed trackers.