Apple and Google have announced a proposal for a joint sector specification to counter the misuse of Bluetooth tracking devices and prevent unwanted tracking, an illegal activity we’ve been hearing about more and more in recent months. This initiative, the first of its kind in this industry, will enable devices to support unauthorized location detection and alerts on both iOS and Android platforms.
Several tracking device manufacturers, including Samsung, Tile, Chipolo, eufy Security and Plebee, have already shown their support for the draft specification which offers all the tools necessary to integrate these features into their trackers. This new specification was submitted as an Internet Draft through the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF), a leading standards development organization.
All interested parties were invited and encouraged to review and provide comments on the specification over the next three months. After this first consultation phase, Apple and Google will work together to collect and manage the feedback received and a final version of the specification will be released by the end of 2023
Apple, since the launch of its AirTags, has always tried to avoid misuse, also making a series of updates as well as collaborating with law enforcement agencies. Furthermore, in 2021 it developed the Tracker Detect app to allow the detection of AirTags even to those who have an Android smartphone.
As stated by Ron HuangApple’s Vice President of Sensing and Connectivity, this new industry specification builds on the protections being developed for AirTags and, by partnering with Google, will take a significant leap forward that is critical to helping prevent its misuse and unwanted tracking.
Dave BurkeVice President of Engineering of Android, emphasized the fact that while Bluetooth trackers have brought about enormous benefits for the user, they still carry the risk of unwanted tracking, a problem that can only be solved through joint action of the entire sector.
In developing this specification, in addition to feedback from manufacturers, input from various security and activist groups was also taken into account, including the National Network to End Domestic Violencewho supports setting universal standards to protect those who have been victims of the misuse of tracking devices, according to which this new standard will minimize opportunities for technology abuse by allowing unwanted trackers to be quickly located.
Finally, satisfaction was also expressed by Alexandra Reeve Givenspresident and CEO of the Center for Democracy & Technology, who commended Apple and Google for this collaboration and their efforts to develop a common solution for tracker detection.
