On a few of the apparently inferior mobile OSs if you lost your phone you could log into some sort of web service and easily locate where you phone had been mislaid. As long as you turned that feature on then things would be all good.
Android users have been left relying upon third party developers to offer this sort of functionality. Well Google is soon to offer their own app. Here are some details they posted on their blog earlier.
Have you ever lost your phone in between the couch cushions or forgot it in a restaurant? Or maybe searching for your phone before you rush out the door is part of your morning routine? Later this month, the new Android Device Manager can help you out. It’s one of a few simple features you can use to keep your device—and the data you store inside—safe and secure.
Locate and ring your misplaced device If you ended up dropping your phone between those couch cushions, Android Device Manager lets you quickly ring your phone at maximum volume so you can find it, even it’s been silenced. And in the event that your phone or tablet is out of earshot (say, at that restaurant you left it at last night), you can locate it on a map in real time.
Protecting your personal information and data While losing your phone can be stressful, Android Device Manager can help you keep your data from ending up in the wrong hands. If your phone can’t be recovered, or has been stolen, you can quickly and securely erase all of the data on your device.
This all sounds great and slightly familiar, but hey, it’s better than late than never. When will it be available I hear you ask and will it work on my dads ancient HTC Desire? Here is some more info from Google:
Availability and getting started
This service will be available later this month on devices running Android 2.2 or above; to use it, you also will need to be signed into your Google Account. There will also be an Android app to allow you to easily find and manage your devices. Stay tuned!
Source – Android Blogspot
Booooo!!!! (inside joke)