Apple and Google team up to address concerns of being tracked by strangers through AirTags

These tracking devices were originally designed with good intentions to help users locate personal items such as keys, wallets, luggage, etc., through community networks. However, malevolent individuals have exploited this to track others without their consent.

Abusers misuse Bluetooth tracking devices, supported by Bluetooth Low Energy technology available on Apple AirTags, to track others. To prevent this from escalating, companies manufacturing these products are experimenting and seeking ways to counter this.

Previously, Apple's iPhones could alert users if an unidentified AirTag was tracking them, but there is currently no automatic detection feature for users of smartphones from other brands. Although there is an Apple Tracker Detect app on Android that allows manual scanning of AirTags.

Collaboration among tech giants like Apple, Google, and other companies will mitigate the risks associated with Bluetooth tracking devices by creating automatic detection features for a variety of trackers from various smartphone brands.

Currently, this initiative is in its early stages, but according to announcements, we can expect some developments to be rolled out by the end of 2023.