Google Find My Device is a valuable tool for locating lost or stolen Android devices. However, like any technology, it may encounter issues affecting its functionality. If you’ve ever experienced the frustration of Google Find My Device not working as expected, rest assured, you’re not alone. In this guide, we’ll provide some easy fixes to address the issue, ensuring your device tracking gets back on track with ease.
1. Turn On Find My Device
Check if Find My Device has been toggled on.
Follow these steps:
1. Go to “Settings.”
2. Scroll down and look for the “Google” option and tap on it.
3. Next, select “Find My Device,” and make sure the “Use Find My Device” is toggled on on the following screen.
Pro Tip: To learn more about activating Find My Device, explore our comprehensive guide on how to find your lost Android devices using Google’s Find My Device.
2. Update the Find My Device App
Making sure your Find My Device app is updated is vital for it to work smoothly.
To update Google Find My Device:
1. Visit the Google Play Store.
2. Search for “Find My Device,” and select “Update” if available.
3. Turn On Device Location
Google Find My Device will not work if your Android device’s location is not enabled.
Follow these steps to turn on your Android’s location:
1. Open “Settings.”
2. Look for the “Location” option and tap on it.
3. Toggle on “Access my location” on the following screen.
4. Scroll down and look for the “Location Services” section and tap on the “Google Location Accuracy” option.
5. Toggle on “Improve Location Accuracy.” This enables your Android device to utilize nearby Wi-Fi, mobile networks, and sensors for more accurate location tracking.
4. Make Sure Your Android is Connected to the Internet
If, for some reason, your Android has lost internet connection, Google Find My Device will show its “Last Seen” location when it was connected to the internet.
Google Find My Device won’t be able to locate real-time locations without an internet connection. So, make sure your Android device always has Wi-Fi or mobile data enabled.
5. Unhide Your Device in Google Play
If Find My Device isn’t working, it could be because you hid your Android device on the Google Play website.
To fix this, just follow these steps to unhide your Android device:
1. Visit https://play.google.com/library/devices
2. Check the “SHOW IN MENUS” box.
6. Use The Correct Google Account
If you’re signed in with the wrong Google account, Find My Device won’t function correctly.
Here’s how to check:
1. Open “Settings.”
2. Scroll down and look for the “Google” option and tap on it.
3. Double-check to ensure you’re signed in with the correct Google account.
4. Use “Add another account” to sign in if the correct Google account is not listed.
7. Disable Power Saving Mode / Battery Saver
The battery-saving features on Android might stop Google Find My Device from tracking your device. Try turning off the Power Saving Mode / Battery Saver on your device.
Here’s how:
1. Swipe down from the top to bring out the Android Quick Settings Panel.
2. Find the Power Saving Mode / Battery Saver icon and turn it off.
8. Clear Cache of Google Play Services
Clearing the cache of Google Play Services can help fix issues with Google Find My Device not working.
Follow these steps to clear the cache of Google Play Services:
1. Open “Settings.”
2. Go to Apps > Google Play services.
3. Tap on Storage > Manage Storage.
4. Finally, tap on Clear All Data, followed by “Delete” to confirm.
4. Restart your Android device. Open Google Find My Device, log into your Google account, and it should work fine.
Read also: 11 Fixes for the “Google Play Services Keeps Stopping” Error
Conclusion: Take Control of Your Device’s Security
Resolving issues with Google Find My Device is essential for effective location tracking. By following the provided fixes, you can ensure your device is secure and easily traceable. Keep your app updated, configure settings accurately, and empower Find My Device for a seamless tracking experience.
