New feature enables Pixel 8 owners to locate phones even when powered off

Google's Find My Device network now offers Pixel 8 and 8 Pro users the ability to locate their devices for several hours after they are powered off or the battery is dead.

This feature, which can be crucial in case of theft or loss, notifies users about the capability after setting up the Find My Device network on the device. Users can ensure this feature is active by adjusting settings in the Find My Device app.

While the default setting is "With network in high-traffic areas only," selecting "With network in all areas" may lead to quicker location results, especially in lower-traffic areas. Google recommends keeping Bluetooth and Location services turned on when the phone shuts down to enable this feature.

This capability is enabled by specialized Pixel hardware and may become available for other devices in the future.