Unexpected allies Apple and Google have teamed up to tackle Bluetooth tracker stalking, proposing a new industry standard that would let people know when an unknown tracker is following them.
The two tech giants announced their collaboration on Tuesday, with the companies unveiling a new draft industry specification(opens in a new tab) to the standards development organization Internet Engineering Task Force(opens in a new tab). If implemented, the new specification would allow Bluetooth location tracking devices to work with unauthorized tracking detection tools on both iOS and Android.
So, if a malicious person slipped an AirTag into an Android user’s bag, their target would still be alerted via their phone’s unauthorized tracking alerts. Currently, Android users worried about being secretly tracked using AirTag must download a dedicated Apple app that can detect such devices.
This detection would also work with other Bluetooth trackers and other operating systems. While Google doesn’t currently have a smart tracker, leaks in January indicated that one was in development.
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Manufacturers of Bluetooth trackers such as Samsung, Tile and Pebblebee have expressed their support for the proposal of Apple and Google, according to the statement published by the two companies. The new standards were developed with feedback from these companies as well as safety and advocacy groups such as The National Network to End Domestic Violence and the Center for Democracy and Technology.
“Bluetooth trackers have created tremendous benefits for the user, but they also bring the potential for unwanted tracking, which requires industry-wide action to address,” said Google’s vice president of engineering for Android Dave Burke in the statement.(opens in a new tab)
“This new industry specification builds on AirTag protections and, through collaboration with Google, is a critical step forward to help combat unwanted tracking on iOS and Android,” said Ron Huang, VP of Sensing and Connectivity from Apple.(opens in a new tab).
The Internet Engineering Working Group will accept comments on Apple and Google’s submission for three months, and the proposal is expected to be implemented by the end of the year.
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Apple and Google have recently announced their collaboration to protect users from Bluetooth trackers being employed to stalk them. With this joint effort, the two tech giants are taking a decisive step forward in their commitment to ensure the safety of their users and protect their privacy.
Ikaroa, a full-stack tech company, applauds this move of Apple and Google to stop Bluetooth trackers being used for stalking. We are all too familiar with the potential lurking dangers of such trackers, and believe that prevention is always better than cure. With their combined resources and technical know-how, Apple and Google have the opportunity to lead from the front and provide safer digital experiences to their users.
Moreover, it is encouraging to see two of the biggest tech companies joining forces for the greater good. In recent years, both have taken numerous measures to ensure a secure and private digital environment for their users. This latest move is a testament to their commitment to protecting their users.
We at Ikaroa firmly believe that it is the responsibility of all companies who produce digital products and services to ensure their users have a secure and private experience. We are thrilled to see Apple and Google taking a leading position in this regard and are hopeful that other tech firms follow in their footsteps.
