Ryan Haines / Android Authority
TL;DR
- Android 15 has a brand new function that enables for finding units even when they’re switched off, however this capability requires specialised {hardware} along with software program adjustments.
- The Pixel 9 sequence was anticipated to debut with this function as soon as Android’s upgraded Discover My Gadget community is rolled out.
- The Pixel 8 sequence and the upcoming Pixel 8a may additionally help the function, whereas Pixel Fold, Pixel 7 sequence, and older units might not help the function.
One of many spotlight options of Android 15 is anticipated to be the brand new Powered Off Discovering API, which might enable appropriate telephones to be situated even when they’re switched off. This new function has some {hardware} necessities, that are anticipated to be fulfilled by units just like the upcoming Google Pixel 9. Because it seems, chances are you’ll have already got a cellphone in your pocket with the {hardware} wanted for this function, as Google has seemingly included them within the Pixel 8 sequence, too.
In keeping with a report from Android Police, Android 15’s Powered Off Discovering API opens up the flexibility to find units even when they’re switched off. That is finished by permitting the system to retailer pre-computed Bluetooth beacons within the reminiscence of the Bluetooth controller. Because of extra specialised {hardware}, the system can energy the Bluetooth controller even when the remainder of the cellphone is powered off (presuming you’ve gotten some reserve battery left). Some software program engineering efforts to help the Bluetooth Finder HAL are additionally wanted to make this attainable, alongside the apparent replace to Android 15 and the rollout of Android’s upgraded Discover My Gadget community.
The Pixel 9 is extensively anticipated to be the cellphone that fulfills these standards, however the Google Pixel 8 and the Pixel 8 Professional do, too (as soon as they get up to date to Android 15). By extension, it’s anticipated that the upcoming Pixel 8a can even help the function, as per the report.
Nevertheless, the Pixel Fold, the Pixel 7 sequence, and the Pixel 6 sequence are unlikely to help the function. The report doesn’t point out whether or not these units are lacking the mandatory {hardware} for this function or whether it is merely a case of lacking software program bits. If solely the software program bits are lacking, particularly on newer and higher-end units just like the Pixel Fold, then there’s a likelihood that the function could possibly be rolled out sooner or later.
Are you enthusiastic about Android 15 and the upcoming capability to find a switched-off cellphone? Tell us your ideas within the feedback under!
