Apple and Google have decided to partner up to develop a new standard for Bluetooth tracking devices in an effort to stop the abusive use, such as malicious stalking of products such as Apple AirTag.
The plan is for a universal, OS-level tracker detection along with an alert system that has been prompted to work across both Android and iOS.
Apple and Google are expecting feedback from stakeholders within the next three months.
After the feedback period is over, the hope is to release a market-ready version by the end of the year. Once it has been released and adopted by makers of tracking devices, it will become available through a software update for both Android and iOS devices.
While this initiative is innovative, it comes at the wrong time. A huge problem with tracking devices such as the Airtag, is the current use of weaponizing it for criminal activity. Some issues such as stealing cars or following other individuals.
It has been reported that the notoriety of the product comes from some aspects of the Airtag being out of Apple’s control.
AirTag has had inadequate safeguards for individuals using Android devices, presenting them to the possibility of danger. There have been multiple reports since the launch of the AirTag, of individuals abusing the tracking device for all sorts of criminal activity.
It became riskier if the victim had a non-Apple device in their possession.
Some of these flaws have been fixed by Apple, however there was still a mass of non-uniform safety measures, between Apple and Android users.
Apple and Google have joined forces to introduce an industry specification that will “allow Bluetooth location-tracking devices to be compatible with unauthorized tracking detection and alerts across iOS and Android platforms.”
In a sense, both Android and Apple users will get the same kind of alerts, no matter which device they choose to use.
In a press release from Apple, they have stated some big names such as, Samsung, Chipolo, Tile, Pebblebee and Eufy Security, while have reportedly shared their willingness in embracing this new specification.
Once the finality of the draft has been completed, manufacturers will implement the tech into their lineup of pet, object and person-tracking devices.
Apple executive Ron Huang has said “This new industry specification builds upon the AirTag protections, and through collaboration with Google results in a critical step forward to help combat unwanted tracking across iOS and Android.”
This comes after Apple was already the subject of a legal dispute over unauthorized AirTag deployment.
Vice president of engineering for Android at Google has said, “Bluetooth trackers have created tremendous user benefits, but they also bring the potential of unwanted tracking, which requires industrywide action to solve.”
