9 Creative Ways to Use Android Find My Device Trackers
Google's answer to the Apple AirTag had a rocky start, but months after launch, most people find that Android's Find My Device network works well enough to justify trying out an Android-compatible Bluetooth tracker. It's a no-brainer to use them on items like keys, luggage, and pets. However, partly because they depend on Bluetooth rather than Wi-Fi or cell signal, Android Bluetooth trackers can serve other, more novel purposes.
1. Send a Modern Message in a Bottle into the World
You probably shouldn't do this one, as littering is bad and littering electronics and batteries is worse. Still, it's a fun idea to think about. You could toss a Bluetooth tracker in a bottle and hope it floats to a populated beach. Maybe a smart tag tied to a balloon or model rocket would land somewhere interesting.
2. Monitor Remote Properties for Unknown Visitors
A good extra line of defense against intrusion, this one's far from a guarantee, and works best with an Apple AirTag. If you own or manage property in a remote area, such as a cabin deep in the woods, a Bluetooth tracker can alert you to unexpected visitors.
3. Keep Tabs on Someone You're Caring for
The terms of service and laws, depending on jurisdiction, prevent the use of Find My Device trackers to follow people or things without their permission. However, if someone under your care tends to wander off and potentially puts themselves in danger, a Bluetooth tracker could save a life.
4. Remind Yourself Where You Parked Your Car
Bluetooth trackers aren't cellular-enabled LoJack systems and don't track fast-moving items like cars well in real time. However, if you parked on one of several indistinguishable floors of a parking garage, a tracker stashed in your car's visor can shorten your search.
5. Keep Tabs on Someone You're Caring for (Alternative)
Some Bluetooth trackers support NFC connectivity, so anybody who finds one can quickly access the owner's contact information and return the lost item. Others accomplish the same thing using a QR code.
6. Send a Secret Message
If you need to contact someone without sending them a message, they can carry it with them and check it periodically. Some implementations manage contact details via an external database, which lets you update the message without being near the tracker.
7. Use Bluetooth Trackers in Unconventional Ways
More than just checking on lost luggage, users and experts across the industry are cautiously optimistic that Android's Find My Device network will continue improving. The only reason Google has given for the evolving performance is that it's prioritized informing users about the In all areas, so more people are opting in.
8. Explore New Features with NFC Tags
We also know that additional features are in the works, potentially including UWB-enabled precision finding. The Moto Tag and flagship phones like the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL support UWB connectivity, but Android FMD and most Android phones don't.
9. Use Bluetooth Trackers to Follow People or Things Without Their Permission (Note: This is Not Recommended)
The terms of service prevent this type of use case, as it's against the law in some jurisdictions. However, if someone under your care tends to wander off and potentially puts themselves in danger, a Bluetooth tracker could save a life.