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Finding a lost or misplaced Android phone can be a frustrating experience, especially when the device is turned off. Google's Find My Device system, while useful, has its limitations, especially when the device is not connected. With Android 15, Google aims to solve this problem by introducing a new Powered Off Finding API.
A recent report Android Police sheds light on how the API can help locate devices even when they are turned off. Essentially, the system works by storing pre-calculated Bluetooth beacons in the memory of the Bluetooth controller.
However, there is a catch: in order for the device to power the Bluetooth controller, you need special hardware that allows it to function even when the phone is completely turned off. Hence, this feature may also require a small amount of battery power. While initial rumors suggested the feature could debut with the Pixel 9, now a report Android Police indicates that the Pixel 8 can also use it after updating to Android 15.
In addition to the hardware requirements, a significant software development effort is required to support the Bluetooth Finder HAL (Hardware Abstraction Layer). Users should also ensure that they have updated to Android 15 and have the latest version of Google's Find My Device system.
Unfortunately, older devices like the Pixel Fold, Pixel 7 series, and Pixel 6 series are less likely to get this feature. It is not clear whether these devices lack the necessary hardware or whether the limitations are purely software related. However, there's a chance that this feature could be extended to some older devices in the future, especially the latest high-end models like the Pixel Fold.
