Apple and Google announced today that it was teaming up to combat those that misuse Bluetooth-tracking devices such as AirTags to stalk people.
Both companies announced in a press release that it jointly submitted a new proposed industry specification to combat these products’ safety risks. Specifically implementing a new standard that requires these products to be compatible with “unauthorized tracking detection and alerts” across Android and iOS platforms. While AirTags already notifies Apple users when an unwanted AirTag is nearby, the proposal would implement this across all tracking devices.
“These new standards will minimize opportunities for abuse of this technology and decrease the burden on survivors in detecting unwanted trackers,” Erica Olsen, the National Network to End Domestic Violence’s senior director of its Safety Net Project, said in the press release published today. “We are grateful for these efforts and look forward to continuing to work together to address unwanted tracking and misuse.”
Other companies that make similar Bluetooth-enabled tracking devices, such as Tile and Samsung, have expressed support for the new proposed standard.
Apple released AirTags back in 2021. While it was not the first in the market, it, and its competitors, touts it as a device that allows you to easily find your belongings, from your car keys to your check-on luggage at an airport. Regardless of which tracking device you use, these products have been misused to stalk people and steal cars. While AirTags have a built-in alarm inside, places such as Etsy and eBay have shown listings of ‘Silent AirTags,” which remove the built-in speaker inside the device, making it easier for those with malicious intent to slip the product into someone’s bag or car.
Apple anticipates the features to be ready by the end of 2023, and it will be supported in future versions of iOS and Android.
Taylor is the Associate Tech Editor at IGN. You can follow her on Twitter @TayNixster.
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