How to locate a lost or stolen Android phone or tablet even if it’s offline

Google recently updated its “Find My Device” app with a new feature that allows users to find lost or stolen devices such as Android phones, tablets, and headphones, even if they don’t have a SIM card or active internet connection.

However, unlike Apple’s pre-installed “Find My” app, users will have to install the “Find My Device” app from the Play Store. Additionally, to find a lost phone, tablet or headphones offline, users will have to use another phone.

Here’s how to add your Android device to the Google Find My Device network. (Express photo)

How to add your device to the Find my device network

1. Open the Find My Device app and sign in to your Google account. A screen may appear asking if you want to add your device to the Find My Device network.

2. Tap the blue button at the bottom of the screen that says “Enter Screen Lock.” You will then need to enter the device PIN code visible on the screen.

3. If you don’t see the screen where you can add your device to Find My Network, open the “Settings” app on your device, scroll down, find and tap “Google.”

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4. On the page that appears, click “Find my device” and click “Find your offline devices.” This option is set to “Disabled” by default, but you can change it to suit your preferences.

If you don’t understand what these switches do, just press the down arrow button on the right for a detailed description. Set the option to “Only with network in high traffic areas” or “With network in all areas”.

Find my device Finding your lost phone is now easy. (Express photo)

How to use Find My Device to find your Android device

1. Launch the Find My Device app on your phone and sign in with your Google account.

2. Now tap on the device you want to find and you will see an option called “Find Nearby”.

3. This will open a new screen that will show you the distance to your lost device. As you get closer, the ring will fill with color.

4. If you can’t see the device even when you’re close to it, press the “Play Sound” button at the bottom of the screen.

If your phone isn’t nearby, users can also check their last known location using the Find My Device app.

First posted: 06/16/2024 15:41 EST