Apple and Google have finally released a fix for the issue of unauthorized Bluetooth trackers that can be used to stalk people or steal their possessions.
The two tech giants have developed an industry standard called “Detecting Unwanted Location Trackers,” which will alert users via iOS or Android if they’re being tracked by one of these devices.
So, how does it work? Well, if an unknown Bluetooth device is detected moving with you over a period of time, you’ll receive an alert that reads “Found Moving With You,” regardless of which platform the tracker is paired with.
This means that whether the tracker is an Apple AirTag, a Tile, or any other compatible device, you’ll be notified if it’s following you around.
Apple and Google announced their partnership to tackle this issue last May, with support from other industry players like Samsung and Tile.
They’re now rolling out the capability in iOS 17.5 and across Android 6.0 and later devices, starting today. Several companies, including Chipolo, Eufy, Jio, Motorola, and Pebblebee, have already committed to making their future Bluetooth tags compatible with the new standard.
The need for this kind of solution became apparent shortly after Apple launched its AirTags about three years ago. While the devices were intended to help people keep track of their belongings, stories quickly emerged of bad actors using them to stalk people and steal cars.
Apple responded by working on ways to make it harder for stalkers to misuse AirTags, and it even released an Android app in late 2021 to help people detect if an AirTag had been planted on them.
However, the new OS-level approach promises to be more comprehensive, warning people about unwanted trackers across both the iOS and Android platforms. This is a significant step forward in addressing the issue of Bluetooth tracker abuse.
It’s worth noting that Apple has faced legal challenges over AirTag stalking. In March, a San Francisco judge rejected the company’s attempt to dismiss a class-action lawsuit related to the issue.
The timing of the Detecting Unwanted Location Trackers alert rollout is also interesting, as there have been long-standing rumors that Google has been working on its own Bluetooth tracker. With Google’s I/O developer conference coming up on Tuesday, it’s possible that we might see a new tracking device from the company.
The introduction of the Detecting Unwanted Location Trackers standard is a welcome development in the fight against Bluetooth tracker abuse. By providing users with OS-level alerts when they’re being tracked by an unknown device, Apple and Google are empowering people to take control of their privacy and security. As more companies adopt this standard, we can hope to see a significant reduction in the misuse of Bluetooth trackers for stalking and theft.
The Information is Collected from Engadget and The Verge
