Last year, Google and Apple, two tech giants, made headlines by joining forces to address the issue of unwanted tracking via AirTags and similar devices. They began working together to develop a dedicated specification to counter this problem. Subsequently, Google rolled out innovative unwanted tracker alerts exclusively for Android devices running Android 6.0 and later. Additionally, in a move aimed at ensuring user safety, Google delayed the launch of its Find My Device network until Apple implemented equivalent safeguards against unwanted tracking on its iOS platform.

Despite considerable anticipation, it has taken a significant amount of time for this collaborative endeavor to come to fruition. However, the wait is nearly over, as Google has recently sent out emails to Android users, revealing that the much-awaited Find My Device network will be launched in a matter of days.

According to the emails, the launch is tentatively scheduled for the forthcoming Sunday or, more likely, next Monday, the 8th of April. These emails detail the following important information regarding the new network:

With the new Find My Device network, you’ll be able to locate your devices even if they’re offline. You can also find any compatible Fast Pair accessories when they’re disconnected from your device. This includes compatible earbuds and headphones, and trackers that you can attach to your wallet, keys, or bike. You’ll get a notification on your Android devices when this feature is turned on in 3 days. Until then, you can opt out of the network through Find My Device on the web.

If you have received the aforementioned email from Google, you have the option to opt out of the tracking network earlier than the designated date by visiting the following link. It is important to note that the chosen setting, whether you opt in or opt out, will be applied to all Android devices linked to your Google account.

Impromptu Rollout Triggered by iOS 17.5 Update

If you are curious about the reasons prompting this seemingly impromptu network launch, it appears that iOS 17.5 includes the long-awaited unwanted tracking protections, which were originally discussed by Google and Apple back in 2023. Google’s launch timeline suggests that iOS 17.5 is slated to be released next Monday. Consequently, all the essential components of the puzzle appear to be falling into place.

Source: 9to5 Google