Google is expanding the capabilities of its Find My Device app beyond just tracking lost phones and accessories. With a new real-time location-sharing feature, users can now share their live location with trusted contacts, making it a useful tool for check-ins and emergencies alike. The feature was announced as part of Google’s March Pixel Drop and is expected to roll out widely soon.
The process is straightforward: once you and a trusted contact enable the feature, you’ll be able to see each other’s real-time location within the Find My Device app. You can also share your location with multiple people at once, making it ideal for coordinating meetups or keeping tabs on loved ones.
Google provides multiple customization options for how long location sharing remains active. Users can opt to share their location for just an hour, for the entire day, or set a custom duration based on their needs.
While Google Maps already offers a location-sharing feature, Find My Device provides a simpler, more focused experience. Unlike Maps, which has a wide range of navigation and search functions, Find My Device is built specifically for tracking, making it easier to access and use for location-sharing purposes.
This update builds on Find My Device’s growing functionality. In 2024, Google introduced the ability to share tracked items with friends and added support for tracking tags. The company has also worked closely with Apple to reduce risks associated with unwanted tracking, ensuring a safer experience for users.
By integrating real-time location sharing, Find My Device is becoming more than just a tool for finding lost gadgets—it’s now a practical option for staying connected with family and friends in everyday situations.