On Tuesday, Apple and Google announced a joint initiative to prevent the misuse of Bluetooth online tracking devices, such as Apple’s AirTag. The two companies have developed a specification that is offered as an industry standard for iOS and Android and has the support of many third-party companies that offer such trackers, including Chipolo, eufy Security, Pebblebee, Samsung, and Tile.
“Apple launched AirTag to give users peace of mind knowing where to find their most important items,” said Ron Huang, Apple vice president, Sensing and Connectivity. “We built AirTag and the Find My Network with a set of proactive features to discourage unwanted tracking – an industry first – and we continue to make improvements to ensure the technology is used as intended. This new specification industry relies on AirTag protections and, through collaboration with Google, is a crucial step forward to help combat unwanted tracking on iOS and Android.
A draft version of the Internet specification has been submitted to the Internet Engineering Task Force, which is a standards development organization. Over the next three months, Apple and Google are encouraging review and feedback on the specs, and after the feedback period, feedback will be addressed. A production version of the specification is planned for the end of 2023.
In 2021, Apple launched AirTag, a small disc-shaped device that uses Bluetooth to track its location. After pairing with an iPhone, an AirTag can be placed in a bag, on a keychain, or anywhere else to keep tabs on its location. However, AirTag and other Bluetooth tracking devices have been used in harmful ways, with reports of the devices being used in several instances of harassment being reported to police. Apple responded by making several changes to how AirTags work.
Google is rumored to be making an AirTag-like tracker for Android phones that could arrive in October alongside the Pixel 8.
To learn more about AirTag, read our review and a list of major AirTag issues. We also have a list of ways to use AirTag and information on how to find, block and disable an unknown AirTag traveling with you. We also have reviews of other Bluetooth trackers.
