In a landmark move, tech giants Apple and Google have teamed up to develop an industry specification aimed at preventing unwanted tracking through Bluetooth-enabled devices such as Apple’s AirTags. This collaboration seeks to make tracking alerts compatible with both iOS and Android devices, marking a significant step forward in the fight against stalking and other malicious uses of these tracking devices.
Bluetooth trackers have proven invaluable in helping users locate lost or stolen items such as keys, luggage, and vehicles. However, the potential for misuse in tracking individuals without their knowledge has raised serious concerns. Apple, with the launch of its AirTags back in 2021, rumoured in 2020, integrated proactive features to discourage unwanted tracking. Now, by collaborating with Google, both companies hope to enhance and expand these protections across iOS and Android platforms.
It is worthy to note here that Google, early this year, was rumoured to be working on an AirTags competitor under the intriguing codename “Grogu.” The alleged tracking device which has a built-in speaker that plays a sound to help locate its attached object was meant to compete with Apple’s AirTag.
However, it is crucial to consider how both Google and Apple are now collaborating on an industry specification. While both companies may be competitors, their willingness to work together to address a pressing issue speaks volumes about their dedication to creating a safer and more secure tech environment for all users.
Several industry participants, including Samsung, Tile, Chipolo, Eufy Security, and Pebblebee, have expressed support for the draft specification, which outlines best practices and guidance for manufacturers who wish to incorporate these capabilities into their products. Furthermore, input from various safety and advocacy groups, such as the National Network to End Domestic Violence and the Centre for Democracy, has been instrumental in shaping the development of the specification.
The proposed specification has been submitted as an Internet-Draft to the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF), a leading organisation in standards development. Over the next three months, interested parties are encouraged to review and provide feedback on the draft. Apple and Google will then collaborate to address any concerns and release a production implementation of the specification for unwanted tracking alerts by the end of 2023. This will be supported in future versions of iOS and Android.
The partnership between Apple and Google marks a significant milestone in the quest to ensure user safety and privacy in the age of advanced technology. By pooling resources and expertise, these tech giants are demonstrating a commitment to combating the misuse of Bluetooth tracking devices and protecting users from unwanted tracking.
As the draft specification undergoes further review and refinement, it is expected that this groundbreaking collaboration will result in a more secure and user-friendly environment for Bluetooth tracking devices, offering peace of mind to millions of users across both iOS and Android platforms.
