Google to release ‘Android device manager’ app to protect your misplaced phone

After years of user complaints and shoddy third-party variants, Google has finally answered iOS’s “Find My iPhone”, (Apple’s official and free app for locating and remote wiping a lost device) feature with a locator of its own: the Android Device Manager.

Google’s solution to the increasing problem of device theft comes at a time when smartphone manufacturers have seen mounting pressure from authorities to add software-side features that could help curb what has been called a violent crime epidemic.  Apple and Samsung in June, have included the potential for a “kill switch,” which would permanently brick a stolen device and make it worthless for resale.

To be released later this month,  Android Device Manager offers three simple features, via an app or Web interface. You can have your phone ring at maximum volume, track it on Google Maps, or—in an absolute worst-case scenario—wipe the device from afar. If you lose your phone, your phone will need to be logged into your Google account for the magic to happen. The feature will be available for users running Android 2.2 or later.