Good Evening Members,
Hope everyone stay safe. I would like to write a review on "Offline finding" topic.
So, what is offline finding feature? Sounds like we can find our phones even there is no wifi or data network.
First of all, we can open Settings → Biometrics and security → Find my mobile → Offline finding
Enable the feature, enable "Encrypt offline location" and set a PIN numbers for security.
Once all setup, now we can find our phone when it is offline. Let's test it out. How it works and if this is what we expect for "Offline finding" ? 🤔
Alright, I turn on Airplane mode. All network connections are gone. Then, I go to the following URL: https://findmymobile.samsung.com/
on computer browser (assume my phone is lost somewhere), login and click on my phone at left column. The result shows me that network status is offline and last location with date and time. Obviously, can't find the phone. Like below screenshot:
Ok, test #2, I turn off WiFi and Data, but enable Bluetooth. Again, go to Find My Mobile website and search for my phone. This time works! 🎊🎉😁
The site pop up for enter PIN numbers to get location. Show at below screenshot:
Enter the PIN numbers you set earlier. If you forget your PIN#, you can reset it on your phone or on the website. Once finished input PIN#, it will show you where your device located.
How about if I have Wifi / Data / BT turn on? Of course it shows where the phone located. But it also shows all the nearby WiFi networks, I think this can help users find their phones more easily.
In summary, this is such a good feature if your phone is lost. However, it depends on the situations. Don't mislead by the meaning of "Offline finding" if someone stole your phone, your phone run out of battery and you expect you can find your phone...No, in certain situations, you cannot find your phone:
- When BT is not on
- When someone stole your phone and power off
- When battery run out on your phone
- This feature only for phone, not for Buds Live and Galaxy Watches
I have read some articles, offline finding is rely on other bluetooth devices to locate your phone. Therefore to make offline finding works, make sure bluetooth turn on all the time.
I hope this post help some members understand how offline finding works and what they need to setup to prevent their phones lost. Of course no one want to lost their phones. Have a great weekends everyone. 🙂
