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FindMyWeb: open-source project to build own trackers on Apple, Google and Samsung networks

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FindMyWeb: open-source project to build own trackers on Apple, Google and Samsung networks

FindMyWeb is an open-source project hosted on Codeberg. Its README describes it as "a project which allows you to build trackers which you actually own." The idea is to let people build their own trackers on top of existing vendor networks without having to own any vendor-specific devices.

The README lists three supported networks: Apple FindMy, Google Find My Device and Samsung SmartThings.

The stated motivation is fragmentation. According to the README, there are many different location-tracker networks from many vendors, and each one requires you to own a device running the vendor's closed-source software, "without you knowing what actually happens with your location." FindMyWeb's answer is a single web interface covering all of these networks, plus the ability to build your own open-source trackers.

On the technical side, the README says the backend currently uses malmeloo's FindMy.py library to interact with Apple's network, while the trackers run a custom Zephyr-based firmware. The repository's language breakdown is Python 38.9%, Vue 35.5%, C 13.1%, TypeScript 11.4%, CMake 0.4% and other 0.6%.

For setup, the README lists a web (frontend plus backend) install under "Development/Baremetal". A Docker option is marked TBD, so it is not yet available.

Key facts

  • FindMyWeb is an open-source project on Codeberg for building trackers you own, using existing vendor networks.
  • The README lists Apple FindMy, Google Find My Device and Samsung SmartThings as supported networks.
  • The backend currently uses malmeloo's FindMy.py library for Apple's network; trackers run a custom Zephyr-based firmware.
  • The stated goal is one web interface for all networks, replacing closed-source vendor software on devices you must own.
  • Setup is listed for development/baremetal; Docker is marked TBD.

Why it matters

Location-tracker networks are split across vendors, and the README says each one requires a device running closed-source software, leaving users unsure what happens with their location. FindMyWeb proposes a single web interface across Apple, Google and Samsung networks and trackers whose firmware is open source, so the user owns the tracker.

Who it affects

The project is aimed at people who want to build their own trackers rather than buy vendor-specific ones, and at those who want one interface for several tracker networks instead of separate vendor apps.

How to use it

The README points to setup instructions for the web part (frontend and backend). A development/baremetal setup is listed; a Docker setup is marked TBD. Trackers run a custom Zephyr-based firmware.

How solid is it

The only source is the project README. It states that the Apple backend uses malmeloo's FindMy.py library. It does not say how many of the three listed networks work today, and it gives no release version, project status, author or maintainer for FindMyWeb itself.

Risks and caveats

The README says nothing on tracker hardware, supported boards or cost, and includes no discussion of privacy, encryption or terms of service. Docker setup is not yet available. Treat the list of supported networks as the project's stated aim, since only the Apple backend is described as implemented.

“The idea is to create a web interface for all of them and allow you to build your own open-source trackers.”

— FindMyWeb README