Intro: Losing an Android device can be an anxious moment. From smartphones and tablets to smartwatches and smartwatches, these personal information-containing devices contain personal data which could prove financially and emotionally distressful should they go missing. But don't panic: Android offers several tools and applications which make locating devices much simpler; in this article we will guide you through each technique to quickly track back down a lost or stolen Android phone, tablet or smartwatch.
Find My Device (formerly Android Device Manager)
Android comes equipped with Find My Device as part of its built-in feature for device tracking, providing a built-in way of remotely locking or wiping data off a lost phone as well as remotely performing various actions like locking it remotely and even ringing to find it more quickly. Here is how it can be used:
Ensure the Find My Device feature on your Android device is turned on:
Navigating to "Settings," scrolling to Security & Location (depending on device). Tap on "Find My Device," turn it on, and toggle its status as desired. b. Track Your Device:
Visit Google's Find My Device website (https://www.domain.com/android/find). Log into it using your account associated with your lost device, then follow its location via map.
Use Google Maps Location Sharing With this feature of Google Maps you can share your real-time location with family or friends; this can be an efficient way of keeping an eye on devices you own or are responsible for. To utilize this option:
a. Start Google Maps on your device.
b. Place your profile picture in the upper-right corner.
c. From the menu, choose "Location Sharing".
d. Select who you would like to share the location with and set an exact duration of their visit.
Your chosen contacts can now see your real-time location on Google Maps.
Install a Third-Party Tracking App
There are numerous third-party tracking apps available through Google Play Store & TapTap Market with more advanced features than those provided in-built by the system itself, including popular options like:
Prey Anti-Theft App: Prey is an all-encompassing anti-theft solution, helping users track Android devices remotely, take pictures remotely, lock it securely and even activate alarms in case it goes missing.
Cerberus Anti-Theft: Cerberus offers advanced security features such as remote control and tracking capability as well as audio recordings from devices to help keep them out of thieves' hands.
Family Locator by Life360: This app is ideal for keeping track of family members. With real-time location sharing capabilities and device location tools, this can assist with keeping tabs on everyone involved and tracking down lost devices.
Smartwatch Tracking
If your Android smartwatch goes missing, it is imperative that you check its built-in tracking features. Many smartwatches like those running Wear OS offer Find My Device features for quick locating. Typically this can be accomplished either through connecting it to your smartphone or through its manufacturer's web interface.
Finding your Android phone, tablet or smartwatch needn't be an ordeal if you take advantage of built-in features like Find My Device or taking advantage of location sharing on Google Maps; third-party tracking apps; or the Built-In Find My Device feature can significantly increase the odds of recovering it quickly and safely. But remember: time may be of the essence!