Google has published an official blog post announcing a brand new feature that is a must have for all Android users, called Android Device Manager.

The concept is rather simple and is similar to many third-party apps on the Play Store. If you happen to lose/misplace your smartphone, you can now sign into Google Play and locate its exact whereabouts via GPS. Alternatively, you can “ring” your device, which will trigger an alarm at the handsets maximum volume enabling you to “sound out” your phone by navigating towards the siren.

The service also provides a quick and easy way to remotely wipe your personal data off the device if it has been stolen. All you have to do is click on your handset within the Device Manager and select the big button labelled “Wipe Device,” and within a few seconds the phone will be completely wiped clean, ensuring that all your confidential information stays private.

The Device Manager Web service will go live later this month, and a separate Device Manager application for Android devices running Android 2.2+ will go live at the same time, too.

So, be sure to check back as we will be sure to let you know when they’re up and running.

• SourceAndroid Blog