Google's new "find my phone" service called Android Device Manager is now up and running, as the web interface just went live.

Android Device Manager can now be used from any web browser simply by logging in one's Google account. It will allow users to find their misplaced, lost or stolen Android phone and remotely wipe data to keep it from ending up in the wrong hands. Up until now, Android users had to resort to third-party apps to have this functionality.

Google started rolling out Android Device Manager on Monday, Aug. 5, as an application part of the Play Services frameworks. A few ADM options showed up in the Google Play Services app the next day, but it still needed a web interface to work. Now, the ADM is live and fully ready to use.

The new Android Device Manager will not only allow users to find their phone and remotely wipe their data, but also ring the handset at full volume even if it was on silent. This should come particularly in handy of users who have a habit of misplacing their phone around the house or between the couch cushions.

Accessing the service will first display a map and a simple, minimalist interface that allows users to manage their devices. Keep in mind, however, that you need to activate ADM in order to use the data wipe functionality. To do so, access the Device Administrators section in Settings > Security.

On a first try, the new Android Device Manager app seems intuitive and fast enough, working smoothly and with no hassle. It's easy to use and the feature to ring one's phone is almost instant. The alarm goes out at maximum volume for five minutes, or until someone presses the device's power button. Locating the device is equally hassle-free, but you need active GPS if you want the location to be very precise. With GPS activated, the web interface displays the device's location with high accuracy.

Android users have long been waiting for Google to offer this functionality and the company took its time. Apple has been offering such options for a good while, but Google is now finally on board. Android users interested in this new functionality can head out here to try it out.