AndroidDeviceManager
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Android Device Manager has a new name: Find My Device
Since Google introduced Android Device Manager in 2013 it has updated the feature periodically, but the latest change gives it a new name -- Find My Device -- and a few new features. It's now a part of the Google Play Protect service mentioned earlier during I/O, and most Android owners should see an update for it on their devices. The standard features (similar to iOS' Find My iPhone) are still intact with the ability to locate, ring, lock down or wipe your hardware remotely -- you can even Google Search "Find My Phone" to use it -- while it has added information about the current battery level and WiFi network connection. For all the latest news and updates from Google I/O 2017, follow along here.
Google search 'Find My Phone' to locate your missing Android
Google's making it even easier to track down your misplaced mobile device. While Android Device Manager already exists to help find lost phones and tablets, just getting to your account's ADM menu often requires a search of its own. But Find My Phone is as simple as a web query. In fact, that's literally what you're doing. Simply open a Google omnibox and type "find my phone" to display a map that reveals the phone's current resting place. If the device is nearby, you can also opt to ring your cell. Unfortunately, Find My Phone does not allow you to lock or erase your device should it be stolen or, say, left at the local pub -- you will still need Android Device Manager to do that.
Android Device Manager scores remote locking feature
Google's Android Device Manager has only been locating phones for over a month, but that's not stopping Mountain View from adding new features. Android Police spotted that the online dashboard now allows users to remotely lock their smartphones with a new PIN code, overriding previous screen unlock measures. Hardware in airplane mode, however, will be locked once it connects to Page and Co.'s servers. Those who wish to protect themselves from ne'er do wells need only enable the security measure through a handset's Google Settings app. Click the source link below to foil unsavory types or to test out the fresh functionality.
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PSA: Android Device Manager now rolling out to a handset near you
That new Android Device Manager feature Google announced last week? It's live now, according to numerous tipsters (and several of our own Android-sporting editors). For the time being, the functionality seems to only be present on handsets, arriving via an over the air update. The new feature lets you ring your phone at maximum volume even when silenced, locate the device on a Google Map and wipe it clean, should the other two options not pan out. [Thanks to everyone who sent this in]
Google intros Android Device Manager to help you find that missing handset
Frequently lose your phone? Yeah, join the club. Don't worry, Google's got a fix. Android Device Manager will be available later this month for phones with 2.2 or later, letting you ring your phone at maximum volume when you can't find it, even if the handset has been silenced. Should that fail, you can also locate the thing on a Google Map in real-time -- and there's also a plan C. When you're all out of other options, you can securely erase all of your data from afar, so your Angry Birds scores don't wind up in the wrong hands.
