Observed Signal · May 3, 2023 · Partnership · Source: Trending Topics · Impact: 3/5 · Sentiment: Neutral
Apple and Google Team Up Against Unwanted Bluetooth Tracking
Apple and Google have proposed a new industry standard to prevent unwanted tracking via Bluetooth devices such as AirTags. The initiative aims to let smartphone users on both iOS and Android receive alerts and instructions when a hidden Bluetooth tracking device is detected near them. The proposal builds on Apple's existing AirTag anti-stalking measures, which currently only work when all involved parties use iPhones. Samsung, Tile, Chipolo, eufy Security and Pebblebee have signaled support for the standard. Once the draft is finalized, manufacturers will be able to integrate the technology into their own item, pet and person finder products. Ron Huang, Apple's vice president of Sensing and Connectivity, said the initiative builds on AirTag protections and is an important step in fighting unwanted tracking across iOS and Android.
Apple and Google, supported by major tracker manufacturers, propose a cross-platform standard for detecting unwanted Bluetooth tracking, strengthening privacy protections on both iOS and Android and signaling platform-level cooperation on privacy issues relevant to the advertising ecosystem.
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- Apple and Google proposed a joint industry standard against unwanted Bluetooth tracking.
- The standard would alert smartphone users on both Android and iOS to hidden tracking devices.
- Samsung, Tile, Chipolo, eufy Security and Pebblebee announced support for the initiative.
- AirTag's existing anti-stalking alerts only work when all devices are iPhones.
- Ron Huang said the standard builds on AirTag protections and was developed in cooperation with Google.
Connected Companies & Entities
3 Entities mapped“Apple and Google are working together to prevent unwanted tracking via Bluetooth devices....”
“Apple and Google are working together to prevent unwanted tracking via Bluetooth devices....”
“Other well-known manufacturers including Samsung, Tile, Chipolo, eufy Security and Pebblebee have signaled their willingness to adopt the wa...”
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