New Android 15 Feature: Find Your Phone Even When It's Off

Google plans to introduce a new feature with Android 15 called the Powered Off Finding API to find or track your phone while it is powered off. The feature will counter Google’s current solution, Find My Device, which has several drawbacks, especially if the phone isn’t connected.

According to a report from Android Police, this API could help locate devices even when they’re powered off. The system works by storing Bluetooth beacons in the phone’s memory, allowing it to emit signals even when it’s off. However, there’s a catch – the phone needs specialized hardware to power the Bluetooth controller when it’s off, and a small reserve of battery may be necessary.

Initially, it was rumored that this feature would debut with the Pixel 9. But now, reports suggest that even the Pixel 8 could get it with the Android 15 update.

However, there are some requirements. Apart from the hardware, significant software updates are needed to support this feature. Users must also ensure they’ve updated their phones to Android 15 and have the latest version of Find My Device installed.

Unfortunately, older devices like the Pixel Fold, Pixel 7 series, and Pixel 6 series might miss out on this feature. It’s uncertain if it’s due to hardware limitations or if it’s a software issue. But there’s hope that this feature could eventually come to select older devices, especially recent high-end models like the Pixel Fold.

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