Google and Apple Team Up to Tackle Bluetooth Tracker Safety Concerns

Google and Apple Team Up to Tackle Bluetooth Tracker Safety Concerns

Bluetooth tracker tags have been a handy tool for many people who tend to forget their belongings, but they have also led to concerns regarding unwanted tracking and stalking. As a response to this, Google and Apple have teamed up to draft an industry-wide specification to deter unwanted tracking and enhance existing privacy measures. The companies plan to release a production implementation of the specification by the end of 2023, and we can hope to see these protections arrive for future versions of Android and iOS.

Bluetooth tracker tags have become increasingly popular in recent years as they help people keep track of their belongings. However, these wireless location-tracking accessories have also given rise to concerns regarding unwanted tracking and stalking. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how Google and Apple are teaming up to make Bluetooth tracker tags safer with their industry-wide specification.

What are Bluetooth tracker tags?

Bluetooth tracker tags are wireless location-tracking accessories that can help people find lost or misplaced items. They work by using Bluetooth technology to connect to a smartphone or tablet, allowing users to locate their belongings through an app. These tags can be attached to keys, wallets,

r other items that are easily misplaced.

Concerns regarding unwanted tracking and stalking

While Bluetooth tracker tags can be useful for locating lost items, they have also raised concerns regarding unwanted tracking and stalking. Some people have reported that their belongings were tracked without their knowledge or consent, leading to safety issues. These concerns have prompted companies to take action to prevent the misuse of Bluetooth tracker tags.

Targeted efforts to prevent misuse of Bluetooth tracker tags

To prevent the misuse of Bluetooth tracker tags, companies such as Apple have launched apps to find unknown AirTags. Tile, another Bluetooth tracker tag manufacturer, has also threatened a $1 million fine for those who misuse its trackers. However, these efforts have not been enough to fully address the concerns surrounding unwanted tracking and stalking.

Google and Apple have recognized the need for a more comprehensive solution to address the safety issues surrounding Bluetooth tracker tags. They have teamed up to draft an industry-wide specification that would alert users in the case of unwanted tracking. The goal of the specification is to enhance existing privacy measures and build a universal standard to deter unwanted tracking.

How the industry-wide specification works

The industry-wide specification developed by Google and Apple will allow users to detect the presence of unknown trackers and send alerts across Android and iOS platforms. The system will be designed to prevent unwanted tracking and enable users to take appropriate action. It will also include best practices for manufacturers to build unwanted tracking capabilities into their products.

Manufacturers expressing interest in the project

Several Bluetooth tracker tag manufacturers, including Samsung, Tile, Chipolo, eufy Security, and Pebblebee, have expressed interest in the project. This is a positive sign that the industry is taking the concerns surrounding Bluetooth tracker tags seriously.

The companies have already submitted a draft of the specification through the Internet Engineering Task Force and are encouraging people to provide feedback. Once the feedback has been addressed, they plan to release a production implementation of the spec for unwanted tracking alerts by the end of 2023. We can expect to see these protections arrive for future versions of Android and iOS.

The collaboration between Google and Apple to create a universal standard for Bluetooth tracker tags is an important step towards ensuring the privacy and security of users. By alerting users to the presence of unknown trackers and including best practices for manufacturers, the specification will create a safer environment for all users. With the input of industry participants and advocacy groups, the final specification will be comprehensive and take into account the needs of all stakeholders.