Google has finally started rolling out Android’s Find My Device network after a significant delay. This underscores the neglect of UWB (ultra wide-band) technology by Google and Android, despite its potential for short-range communication and proximity detection between devices. Although Google has included the necessary hardware for UWB in devices like the Pixel 6 Pro and Pixel Fold, there are currently limited real-world applications for the technology on these devices. One of the few instances where UWB is utilized is in Quick Share.
The Find My Device network does not currently support UWB, unlike Apple’s AirTags, which leverage UWB for precise location tracking. However, there are promising developments on the horizon, such as the Pixel Tablet soon supporting “Tap to Cast” with UWB-compatible Android phones and the Pixel Watch 3 incorporating UWB technology for improved unlocking capabilities. Despite the potential for UWB to enhance user experience, both Google and other companies like Samsung have been slow to fully utilize the technology, leaving its true capabilities untapped. Moving forward, it remains to be seen how UWB will be integrated into Android devices and the potential for innovative applications in the future.