Apple, Google team up vs. location-tracking

A proposed industry-wide protocol being developed by Apple and Google is intended to address safety concerns and warn consumers when they are being tracked without their knowledge or consent using gadgets like AirTags.

On 2^nd May 2023 the companies released a joint statement mentioning “Today Apple and Google jointly submitted a proposed industry specification to help combat the misuse of Bluetooth location-tracking devices for unwanted tracking.”

“The first-of-its-kind specification will allow Bluetooth location-tracking devices to be compatible with unauthorized tracking detection and alerts across iOS and Android platforms.”

“Samsung, Tile, Chipolo, eufy Security, and Pebblebee have expressed support for the draft specification, which offers best practices and instructions for manufacturers, should they choose to build these capabilities into their products.”

Although the main purpose of these trackers is to monitor personal items like luggage, wallets, keys, and other items, bad actors have also used them for theft, stalking, and other illegal or nefarious activities.

Standardizing the alerting procedures will reduce the likelihood of abuse among Bluetooth location-tracking devices made by various vendors. Samsung, Tile, Chipolo, eufy Security, and Pebblebee have all joined forces in support of this.

In order to comply with these requirements, tracking devices made by the companies must follow a set of guidelines and suggestions and alert consumers to any unwanted tracking on iOS and Android devices.

Source

• https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2023/05/apple-google-partner-on-an-industry-specification-to-address-unwanted-tracking/
• https://thehackernews.com/2023/05/apple-and-google-join-forces-to-stop.html

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