Credits: Apple
Apple and Google collaborated on a standard called “Detecting Unwanted Location Trackers” for Bluetooth devices. This standard enables both iOS and Android to notify users if an unknown Bluetooth tracker is being used to track them, aiming to prevent misuse. iOS 17.5 now includes this feature, and Android 6.0+ devices are launching it.
When an unknown Bluetooth tracker is detected moving with a user, regardless of the platform it’s paired with, users will receive a “[Item] Found Moving With You” alert. For iOS users, this could indicate another person’s AirTag or similar tracker. Users can identify the tracker, make it emit a sound for locating, and receive instructions to disable it. Bluetooth tag manufacturers like Chipolo, eufy, Jio, Motorola, and Pebblebee have committed to ensuring compatibility with future tags.
Apple emphasizes the privacy and safety of AirTag and Find My network accessories. This collaboration involves community and industry input, offering guidance for manufacturers interested in integrating anti-tracking capabilities into their products. Apple and Google plan to work with the Internet Engineering Task Force to establish an official standard for this technology.