Google’s Find My Device Network Shows Promise, But Still Needs Feature Boost

It’s been nearly a year since Google launched its AirTag-competitor network, Find My Device, and the landscape of Bluetooth trackers is really starting to feel more competitive. We've seen added support for finding people, and hints of more features coming down the line like ultra-wideband (UWB) technology for pinpoint accuracy. However, what truly underscores how new Google’s network still is, and how much potential remains, is exemplified by the two best trackers available today: the Chipolo POP and Moto Tag.

Workarounds for a Barebones Platform

Both Motorola and Chipolo have had to get creative, essentially working *around* Google’s relatively limited default options in order to deliver a truly feature-rich experience. When you set up either the Moto Tag or the Chipolo POP, you'll be prompted to download their respective apps – the Moto Tag app and the Chipolo app. This is because, at its core, Google’s Find My Device app is… basic. You can see a device’s location, battery level, navigate to it, or make it ring. That’s about it.

Even Apple offers features like left-behind notifications, but Google doesn’t yet. Compared to Tile or Samsung’s Find apps, Google’s platform feels quite limited. Motorola and Chipolo both recognized this, and intelligently filled the gap by adding extra functionality through their own applications.

Key Features Added Through Dedicated Apps

These trackers still work seamlessly with the Google Find My Device network and appear within the official app. However, installing the dedicated apps unlocks significant benefits. Here's a breakdown:

• Moto Tag App: Offers customizable ringtones, a reverse-finding feature (double-press the Tag to ring your phone), a remote shutter for your camera, and firmware updates.
• Chipolo POP App: Includes 12 ringtone choices, a flashlight activation during reverse phone finding, a selfie shutter, and a crucial “out-of-range” alert that notifies you if you've left the tracker behind.

These aren’t just “nice-to-haves”; they’re features that have been standard on Bluetooth trackers for years! I didn’t realize how much I’d appreciate a left-behind alert until it actually saved my keys. It's those little conveniences that significantly improve the usability of a tracker.

A Shift Away from Proprietary Systems?

What's slightly disheartening is that these brands had to go the proprietary route to provide these essential features. The ethos behind Apple's Find My and Google’s Find My Device networks was meant to *avoid* this fragmentation. The goal was a unified tracking experience, removing the need for separate apps and creating a more seamless ecosystem. Yet, here we are.

Requiring a third-party app feels like a step backward. Ideally, Google should incorporate these core features directly into the Find My Device platform, benefiting all trackers. Why force users to manage multiple apps and grant additional permissions?

Chipolo Pop: A Simplified Approach

Thankfully, Chipolo recognized the confusion and streamlined their product line with the launch of the Chipolo Pop. This new tracker is now compatible with both Apple’s Find My and Google’s Find My Device networks, offering incredible flexibility. Before, you had to choose a model specifically for Apple or Android. The Pop eliminates that headache!

The Chipolo Pop boasts several improvements:

• Dual Compatibility: Works seamlessly with either Apple Find My or Google Find My Device.
• Extended Range: Up to 300 feet (90 meters).
• Improved Durability: IP55 rating for dust and water resistance.
• Loud Alarm: 120dB alarm.
• User-Replaceable Battery: CR2032 coin cell battery lasting up to a year.
• Extra Features (via app): Customizable ringtones, a remote camera shutter, and phone finding.

While the Pop doesn’t simultaneously track across both networks, the ability to choose one at setup is a huge improvement. Resetting the tracker to switch networks is also possible.

Moto Tag: Leveraging UWB (Eventually)

The Moto Tag is another strong contender, and interestingly, it's designed to fit standard AirTag accessories! It’s Android-only, but also the only Find My Device tracker with built-in ultra-wideband (UWB) support. However, UWB functionality isn’t currently enabled on Google’s network, meaning it’s a feature waiting for the network to catch up.

A Table Comparing Key Trackers

Ultimately, the success of Google’s Find My Device network hinges on its ability to evolve and add features. The brilliant workarounds from companies like Chipolo and Motorola highlight the pent-up demand for functionality. I hope Google takes note and prioritizes enriching the core Find My Device experience, so trackers can truly live up to their potential – and users don’t have to rely on extra apps just to find their lost keys!