Google’s Find My Device becomes Find Hub amid expansion

Tech Crunch - May 13th, 2025
Open on Tech Crunch

Google announced an expansion of its Find My Device service, now rebranded as "Find Hub," during the Android Show. This update, unveiled a week before Google I/O 2025, introduces new partners and features to enhance device and item tracking for Android users. The service will now support satellite-based finding, more third-party Bluetooth trackers, and airline partnerships. Notable partners include luggage brands July and Mokobara, as well as Bluetooth tags from Pixbee, and Motorola's moto tags employing ultra-wideband technology. Airline collaborations with Aer Lingus, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Iberia, and Singapore Airlines will further assist users in tracking their luggage.

Originally launched in 2013 as an Android competitor to Apple's Find My service, Google's Find My Device expanded last year with a crowdsourced finding network. This update signifies Google's commitment to enhancing user experience by broadening its ecosystem through strategic collaborations and technological advancements. The inclusion of satellite-based finding capabilities and airline partnerships illustrate Google's efforts to compete more effectively against Apple's Find My service, providing Android users with more comprehensive and reliable tracking options for their devices and personal belongings.

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RATING

6.8
Fair Story
Consider it well-founded

The article provides a timely and accurate overview of Google's announcement regarding the rebranding and expansion of its Find My Device service to 'Find Hub.' It effectively communicates the key points about new features and partnerships, appealing to a broad audience interested in technology and personal security. However, the article could benefit from greater transparency in source attribution and a more balanced discussion of potential challenges or privacy concerns associated with the new capabilities. While the article is clear and engaging, providing more detailed explanations of technical terms and addressing broader implications would enhance its overall quality and impact.

RATING DETAILS

8
Accuracy

The news story accurately reports Google's announcement regarding the rebranding and expansion of its Find My Device service to 'Find Hub.' The factual claims about the integration of Bluetooth trackers, partnerships with luggage brands, and the introduction of ultra-wideband technology are consistent with the information available from reliable sources. The mention of airline partnerships and the historical context of the service also align with known facts. However, the story could improve by providing more specific details about the satellite-based finding capabilities and the exact nature of airline partnerships, which are not fully detailed in the text.

7
Balance

The article provides a balanced view of the new features and partnerships related to Google's Find Hub, focusing on the benefits for Android users. It highlights the expansion of service capabilities and the addition of new partners without apparent bias. However, the article could benefit from a broader discussion of potential challenges or limitations associated with these new features, such as privacy concerns or compatibility issues, which are not addressed in the text.

8
Clarity

The article is generally clear and well-structured, presenting information in a logical sequence. It effectively communicates the key points about the new features and partnerships associated with Google's Find Hub. The language is straightforward, making the content accessible to a general audience. However, the article could be improved by providing more detailed explanations of technical terms, such as ultra-wideband technology, to enhance reader understanding.

6
Source quality

The article does not cite specific sources or provide direct quotes from Google representatives, which limits the assessment of source quality. While the information aligns with known facts about Google's services, the lack of attributed sources makes it difficult to evaluate the credibility and reliability of the reporting. Including statements from Google or industry experts would enhance the article's authority and trustworthiness.

5
Transparency

The article lacks transparency in terms of source attribution and methodology. It does not disclose how the information was obtained or whether it is based on official announcements, press releases, or interviews. Additionally, the article does not mention any potential conflicts of interest or biases that could affect the reporting. Greater transparency about the basis of claims and the context of the announcement would improve the article's credibility.

Sources

  1. https://www.howtogeek.com/google-find-my-device-android-find-hub/
  2. https://9to5google.com/2025/04/26/android-find-my-device-network-speed-uwb-improvements/
  3. https://9to5google.com/2025/03/13/find-my-device-people-update/
  4. https://www.phonearena.com/news/google-people-tab-find-my-device-pixel-drop_id168247
  5. https://indieweb.org/site-deaths