Android’s "Find Hub" Finally Gets UWB Support, Teases Luggage and Airline Integration

For a long time, one of the most significant drawbacks of Android’s "Find My Device" network, now rebranded as "Find Hub," was its lack of support for Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology. UWB enables highly precise location tracking of nearby devices, a feature that has been noticeably absent, putting Android users at a disadvantage compared to those using Apple’s AirTags or Samsung’s Galaxy SmartTags. Now, Google is finally addressing this limitation, bringing UWB support to the Find Hub and hinting at exciting integrations with luggage and airlines in the future.

Currently, the vast majority of trackers compatible with the Android Find Hub rely solely on Bluetooth technology. This includes trackers from popular brands like Chipolo and Pebblebee. The Moto Tag, released last year, stood out as the lone exception, boasting built-in UWB radio capabilities. UWB technology offers a distinct advantage in pinpointing the location of a nearby tracker with greater accuracy than Bluetooth alone. This precision is invaluable when you’re trying to find your keys hidden under a couch or a misplaced bag in a crowded room.

The lack of UWB support on the software side has been a frustrating bottleneck. While the hardware, like the Moto Tag, possessed the necessary UWB capabilities, the Find Hub app itself was unable to leverage them fully. This meant that Android users were not able to experience the same level of precision and ease of use offered by competing tracking solutions.

Google has announced that UWB support for the Find Hub app on Android is scheduled to roll out "later this month" for compatible trackers. Initially, the Moto Tag remains the only confirmed device to support this functionality. However, this marks a crucial step forward in enhancing the Find Hub’s capabilities and bringing it on par with its competitors.

Beyond the immediate addition of UWB support, Google is also hinting at expanding the Find Hub ecosystem to include new hardware types and functionalities. This includes collaborations with companies like Pebblebee, who are working on integrating trackers directly into various objects. Their initial offering, "Loc8," will be embedded in skis from Peak, providing skiers with a convenient way to track their equipment.

The integration with luggage is another promising development. Starting in July, trackers compatible with the Find Hub will be available in luggage from brands like Mokobara. This allows travelers to keep tabs on their belongings and receive alerts if their luggage is misplaced or lost.

Google is also highlighting a partnership with Pixbee, a brand specializing in children’s smartwatches. Pixbee will be launching "Disney-themed Bluetooth tags" that can be attached to kids’ belongings, offering parents a fun and reliable way to track their children’s items.

One of the most exciting announcements is Google’s plan to partner with airlines to enable users to share the location of their luggage trackers with the airline. This integration, slated to launch "early next year," will initially include Aer Lingus, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Iberia, and Singapore Airlines. By sharing the location of their luggage trackers, travelers can provide airlines with valuable information that can help expedite the recovery of lost luggage.

It’s worth noting that Apple has already been working with airlines to leverage AirTag technology for similar purposes. Airlines such as United, Delta, and some of the same airlines that Google is partnering with have implemented systems that allow travelers to use AirTags to track their luggage and provide location data to the airlines in the event of loss.

The addition of UWB support to the Find Hub, along with the planned integrations with luggage, airlines, and other hardware types, represents a significant step forward for Android users. These enhancements will make the Find Hub a more competitive and versatile tracking solution, bringing it in line with the capabilities offered by Apple’s AirTag and Samsung’s Galaxy SmartTag. As the Find Hub ecosystem continues to grow and evolve, it promises to provide Android users with a comprehensive and reliable way to track their belongings and stay connected to the things that matter most. The rollout of UWB support is a welcome change, and the potential integrations on the horizon signal an exciting future for the Find Hub.