Android’s Find My Device App Now Shows the Live Location of Your Contacts
Google’s Find My Device app, which was originally designed to help locate lost or stolen devices, has recently added a new feature that allows users to see the real-time location of people who share their whereabouts with them. This update is rolling out gradually and aims to make it easier not only to find your devices but also to keep track of family members or friends.
The latest version introduces a new “People” tab within the app. When you tap on this tab, you’ll see a list of contacts who have shared their location with you, as well as those you’ve chosen to share your location with. This tab also provides a map view, offering a convenient way to check the live locations of your trusted contacts all in one place.
If you want to start sharing your location with someone new, it’s simple to do. Just tap the plus (+) icon located above the People tab, select the length of time you want to share your location—options include one hour, until the end of the day, indefinitely until you decide to stop, or a custom time frame—pick the contacts you want to share with, and then hit Share.
Google emphasizes that the location information is handled with care and privacy in mind. The company assures users that their location data is securely stored, and individuals maintain full control over who can see their location and for how long. The app will also send periodic reminders about the people you’re currently sharing your location with, so you’re always aware of your privacy settings.
Although Google Maps already offered a way to share your location with others, this new addition to Find My Device brings both device tracking and location sharing into a single app, simplifying the user experience. The design of the updated app has also been refreshed, featuring a cleaner interface that some say resembles Apple’s Find My app.
This People feature and the updated user interface are included in version 3.1.277-4 of the Find My Device app, now available through the Google Play Store.
