Finding a misplaced mobile phone set to silent can be frustrating, but built-in features and other home tech offer solutions. Apple's Find My service and Google's Find Hub can make a phone play a loud sound, even if it is on silent or in a Focus mode.
For iPhones, users can visit iCloud.com/find or use the Find My app on another Apple device signed into the same Apple Account. Android users can go to android.com/find or use the Find Hub app on another Android device linked to their Google account. Both services allow users to select their phone and choose 'Play sound' to trigger an alert.
Other methods include using a smartwatch, such as an Apple Watch's Ping iPhone button or a Wear OS device's 'Find my phone' feature. Voice assistants like 'Hey Siri' or 'Hey Google' can also be prompted to play music or set a timer if the phone is nearby and the feature is enabled. Compatible Amazon Alexa or Google Home smart speakers can also be asked to find a phone.
Additionally, some Bluetooth trackers, including specific Tile and Chipolo models, can make a paired phone ring even when it is on silent. However, Apple AirTags do not offer this functionality for iPhones.