In a joint effort, Apple and Google have proposed a new industry specification aimed at preventing the misuse of Bluetooth location-tracking devices, which can lead to unwanted tracking.
This fresh specification will enable Bluetooth location-tracking devices to be compatible with detection and alerts of unauthorized tracking on both iOS and Android platforms.
In 2021, it was reported that Google is exploring a different approach to Apple’s App Tracking Transparency feature, which would give Android users more control over their privacy.
Internet-Draft Submission and Review Period
The proposed specification has been submitted as an Internet-Draft via the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF), a respected standards development organization. Interested parties are invited to review and provide feedback on the proposal over the next three months.
Apple and Google will partner to address feedback and release a production implementation of the specification for unwanted tracking alerts by the end of 2023. This implementation will be compatible with upcoming versions of iOS and Android.
Support from Major Manufacturers and Advocacy Groups
The draft specification has received support from top manufacturers such as Samsung, Tile, Chipolo, eufy Security, and Pebblebee. The document offers best practices and guidelines for manufacturers to incorporate these capabilities into their products. The development of the specification has also incorporated feedback from different groups that focus on safety and advocacy issues.
Speaking on the announcement, Ron Huang, Apple’s Vice President of Sensing and Connectivity, said:
AirTag provides users with the assurance of always knowing the location of their essential belongings, and we have incorporated proactive features to prevent unwanted tracking.
This industry-first protection continues to evolve, and the collaboration with Google has resulted in a critical step forward to combat unwanted tracking on both iOS and Android platforms through the new industry specification.
Commenting on the announcement, Dave Burke, Google’s Vice President of Engineering for Android, said:
Bluetooth trackers have been instrumental in providing user benefits, but the potential for unwanted tracking requires an industry-wide solution. Android remains steadfast in its commitment to user protection and will continue to work towards developing robust safeguards in collaboration with the industry to counter the misuse of Bluetooth tracking devices.