Apple and Google Join Hands to Address Concerns on Misuse of Location-tracking Devices

Apple and Google have jointly submitted a proposed industry specification to help combat the misuse of Bluetooth location-tracking devices for unwanted tracking. This specification will allow Bluetooth location-tracking devices to be compatible with unauthorized tracking detection and alerts across iOS and Android platforms. The move comes after concerns were raised over the misuse of location-tracking devices that could potentially lead to individuals being tracked without their knowledge or consent.

The proposed specification has received support from several organisations such as Samsung, Tile, Chipolo, eufy Security, and Pebblebee. It offers best practices and instructions for manufacturers to build these capabilities into their products. The specification incorporates feedback from device manufacturers as well as input from safety and advocacy groups.

Bluetooth location-tracking devices help users find personal items like keys, purse, luggage, and more through crowdsourced finding networks. However, they can also be misused for unwanted tracking of individuals. The new industry specification builds upon the AirTag protections and results from a collaboration between Apple and Google.

The National Network to End Domestic Violence and the Center for Democracy & Technology have both welcomed the move, stating that it is a significant step forward to address unwanted tracking and misuse of Bluetooth location trackers. The specification has been submitted as an Internet-Draft via the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF), a leading standards development organization.

Interested parties are invited to review and comment on the proposed specification over the next three months. Additionally, Apple and Google will partner to address feedback and will release a production implementation of the specification for unwanted tracking alerts by the end of 2023. The specification will be supported in future versions of iOS and Android. This collaboration is a crucial step forward to combat unwanted tracking across both platforms, said a joint statement from the companies.