Apple and Google Introduce Cross-Platform Unwanted Tracking Alerts

In a landmark collaboration, Apple and Google have announced the implementation of new features in iOS and Android that alert users to the presence of unknown Bluetooth tracking devices moving with them.

This initiative, part of the “Detecting Unwanted Location Trackers” industry specification the two American tech companies proposed a year ago, aims to enhance user privacy and safety across both platforms.

The collaboration between Apple and Google marks an industry first, incorporating inputs from the community and various stakeholders to combat the misuse of Bluetooth tracking devices. Originally designed to help users keep track of their belongings, such devices have raised concerns due to potential unwanted tracking. Recognizing this, both tech giants have worked together to formulate and adopt the “Detecting Unwanted Location Trackers” specification.

The feature lands on iOS 17.5 for Apple iPhone users, while Google will push it to all devices running Android 6.0 and later. On iOS, users will be notified about unknown Bluetooth trackers moving with them via a “[Item] Found Moving With You” message, while on Android, they’ll get a “Tracker traveling with you” warning.

Both Apple and Google have published announcements explaining how the new anti-tracking protection system will work on their platforms. Here’s a summary for each:

• iOS: If an alert is triggered, users can see the tracker’s identifier, activate a sound on the tracker, and access steps to disable it. The feature integrates with Apple’s AirTag, Find My accessory network, and other compatible Bluetooth trackers.
• Android: Similar to iOS, users receiving an alert can identify the tracker, sound it, and find instructions to disable it. This functionality extends to Google’s Find My Device network and other compatible devices.

Major Bluetooth tag manufacturers such as Chipolo, eufy, Jio, Motorola, and Pebblebee have pledged compatibility with the new specification in their future products, so there’s wide industry support for the initiative. Both companies are actively participating in the Internet Engineering Task Force’s (IETF) “Detecting Unwanted Location Trackers” working group. This effort aims to establish an official standard for the technology, ensuring broad adoption and consistent implementation across the tracking tech industry.

However, it is essential to underline that not all current/existing models of trackers will be identified as potentially suspicious and trigger alerts, as they’re not compatible with the newly introduced industry specification.

Trackers that were manufactured earlier may lack the necessary technology to interact with the system implemented by Apple and Google. These older devices will continue to operate normally in the Find My app, but without the ability to alert users about their presence through the new cross-platform alerts.

Despite the limitations, the introduction of these tracking alerts is a significant step towards safeguarding personal privacy in the digital age. Users are encouraged to update their devices to the latest OS versions to benefit from these enhancements, review and utilize security and privacy settings, and turn Bluetooth off when it’s not actively used/needed.