6 Easy Fixes for Google Find My Device Not Working on Android

ByJim Miller

Losing your Android phone can be a nightmare, but thankfully, Google's Find My Device feature can help you track, lock, and erase your device remotely. However, if Find My Device is not working on your Android, it's time to troubleshoot and get it back up and running. Here are six easy fixes that should solve the problem and ensure that you can locate and secure your phone whenever needed.

1. Enable Find My Device

Before you try anything else, make sure that the Find My Device feature is enabled on your Android. To check:

  1. Open the Settings app and tap on Security.
  2. Tap on Find My Device and enable the toggle in the following menu.

Security Settings on Android

2. Enable Location Services

Find My Device relies on your Android's location services to track your device. If you have turned off location services, you won't be able to locate or ring your phone using Google Find My Device. To enable location services:

  1. Open the Settings app on your phone and tap Location.
  2. Enable the toggle next to Use location.
  3. Tap on Google Location Accuracy and toggle on the switch next to Improve Location Accuracy.

Enable Location on Android

3. Ensure Your Android Is Connected to the Internet

Enabling location services won't help if your Android device is not connected to the internet. Make sure your phone has access to mobile data or a Wi-Fi network. Once your Android is connected to the internet, you can use Find My Device to locate and secure it.

4. Use the Same Google Account as on Android

If your Android phone is not showing up in Google Find My Device, it may be because you are using a different Google account than the one on your phone. To fix this:

  1. Open the Settings app and tap on Accounts.
  2. If you don't see your Google account on the list, tap the Add account option and sign in with your credentials.
  3. Head to the Google Find My Device website or download the app on another device.
  4. Sign in with the same Google account as the one on your phone and check if your phone is listed.

5. Unhide Your Device in Google Play

If you have previously hidden your Android phone from the Google Play website, Find My Device may not work. To unhide your phone:

  1. Open a browser on your computer and go to the Google Play website.
  2. Sign into your Google account if you haven't already.
  3. Click the profile picture in the top right corner and select Library & devices.
  4. Switch to the Devices tab and make sure the checkbox next to your device is ticked.

6. Turn Off Battery Saver

Battery optimization features, especially on Android phones with custom skins, can interfere with Google Find My Device and prevent it from tracking your device's location. If Find My Device is still not working, try turning off the battery saver feature on your phone:

  1. Swipe down from the top of the screen to access the Quick Settings panel.
  2. Tap the Battery Saver icon to turn it off.
  3. Check if Find My Device is working now.

By following these simple fixes, you can ensure that Google Find My Device works seamlessly on your Android. Never lose sight of your phone again and have peace of mind knowing that you can track and secure it remotely. However, if you have already lost your phone, it's best to contact your carrier for further assistance.