Once you're logged in, a dashboard will pop up that shows you where your phone is and several options: You may get a prompt asking you for permission to allow Find My Device to use location data. There are several apps with similar names, so be sure to download the one that lists 'Google Inc.' as the developer. To use Find My Device, go to the Play Store and install the Find My Device app on another device, such as another phone or tablet. Should your phone ever go missing, you can track its location and remotely lock or erase it.

To enable remote data wipe, tap on the box next to 'Allow remote factory reset,' then tap Activate.

On older devices you can go to the Google Settings app, and then tap on Android Device Manager. To enable remote data wipe, tap the slider next to 'Allow remote lock and erase.'

Under the Android Device Manager section, the locator feature should be enabled by default. Just to make sure, if you have a newer Android device, go to the Settings > Google > Security. Some phones have security features that can prevent the erase feature of the app from working, though. Enable the settingsįor most devices to work with Find My Device, it will need to be logged into your Google account, online and have its Location feature turned on. Here's how to get started with Find My Device. The feature works similarly to other locator services, such as Lookout and Samsung's Find My Mobile, but you get an app specifically for Android devices. Google's Find My Device, previously known as Android Device Manager, helps you find lost or stolen phones and tablets.

Find my device android location