Google enables Bluetooth tracking via a beacon network on 3 billion Android devices.

Apple’s AirTags are facing competition. Google has prepared its own implementation in the Bluetooth beacon network and will activate in one fell swoop 3 billion Android devices that have the technology present today but are in “sleep mode”.

Google was originally planning to launch the technology this time last year, but that’s when the search giant and Apple joined forces to prevent stalking or privacy situations with Bluetooth beacons. Apple has now completed its update (iOS 17.5) against stalking, whereupon Google suddenly integrated this data protection function into the new one Find my device-Network.

The purpose of AirTags (Apple) and other Bluetooth tags is to use very inexpensive Bluetooth technology to find devices and other things with a tag. Thanks to the beacon network, GPS is not required for such a day. As soon as it is registered somewhere by another device with GPS functionality and connectivity (e.g. a smartphone), information is sent.

Important to know: Nobody knows what data is being forwarded. Only the owner of the tag receives it. Everything happens in the background.

Google explains on its blog four different scenarios in which the Bluetooth beacon network can be useful:

• Find devices that are turned off or have a dead battery (Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro get the scoop).
• Keep track of important household items like phones, tablets, car keys, wallets and house keys.
• Search by tags. You will receive a very precise notification using the search function. It is important not to spend hours looking for keys that fell between the cushions on the sofa.
• Share accessories with friends and family by giving them access to tag or device location.

In the official announcement, Google says that the new Find my deviceThe function is compatible on devices starting from Android 9. Are you curious about what you can already find with tags and have a compatible phone? Click here for all devices on your network. The first Bluetooth tags are scheduled to come onto the market at the end of next month, for example to make a key ring discoverable. According to Google, manufacturers of Bluetooth peripherals are working on updates that can also be found in the Bluetooth beacon network or are already compatible.