Google recently introduced a major update to the Find My Device app, bringing a refreshed design and a new People section for location sharing. With this update, you can now share your location with others, track friends or family, and manage your devices—all within the app.
Since smartphones are an integral part of daily life, location tracking has become more useful than ever. Google’s decision to integrate location sharing into Find My Device makes it even easier to keep track of loved ones or misplaced devices. However, to access these features, you must update the app to the latest version.
New Features in the Find My Device App
Previously, the Find My Device app focused solely on tracking devices. Upon opening the app, users can view a list of their connected devices and track them if needed.
With the latest update, the interface has been redesigned. The screen is now divided into two sections:
- Devices: This section still allows you to track your registered devices.
- People: A new addition that enables location sharing with friends and family.
Additionally, the pull tab at the top of the screen has been merged into the profile menu, making it easier to switch accounts, sign in as a guest, manage blocked users, and adjust location-sharing settings.
How Location Sharing Works on Find My Device
The People tab is where all location-sharing and tracking activities take place. While still in beta, the feature is stable and functions similarly to Google Maps’ location-sharing.
Users can:
- Share their location with specific people.
- View the real-time location of those who have shared their location with them.
- Filter contacts based on whether they are sharing their location with you or vice versa.
- To begin sharing your location, tap the floating (+) button in the bottom right corner of the map. A preview will appear, allowing you to set a sharing duration, with options such as:
- For 1 hour
- Today only
- Until you turn this off
- Custom duration
- You can then choose to share via a link or directly with selected contacts.
How to Share Your Location on the Find My Device App
If you’ve previously shared your location on Google Maps, your contacts will automatically appear in Find My Device after you update the app.
Steps to Share Your Location:
- Open the Find My Device app and navigate to the People section.
- Tap the + icon on the right side of the map.
- Use the dropdown menu to select your preferred sharing duration.
- Scroll through the list of contacts or swipe left to find the person you want to share with.
- Alternatively, copy the share link and send it via social media or SMS.
- Once the recipient accepts, their profile will appear on the map under the People section.
- Tap on their profile to see their location and use the “Get Directions” option if needed.
You can also enable location sharing by tapping the “Share Your Location” button.
Conclusion
The location-sharing feature in Find My Device is nearly identical to Google Maps but may be more convenient for tracking purposes. Google likely intends for Maps to remain the primary navigation tool, while Find My Device focuses on tracking both people and devices.
Regardless, both apps work seamlessly, giving you flexible options for location sharing and tracking.
