Tech giants, Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) and Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ: GOOGL) are responding against stalking using AirTag or similar techniques with a new suggested standard released Tuesday. AAPL and GOOGL shares are up 0.34% and 0.46% in pre trading session on Wednesday, respectively.
The two businesses’ new proposed industry definition “will allow Bluetooth location-tracking devices to be compatible with unauthorized tracking detection and alerts across iOS and Android platforms,” according to a news statement. It contains “best practices and instructions” for firms who manufacture location-tracking gadgets.
The newly disclosed specification was touted by the corporations as “first-of-its-kind.” They handed it over to the Internet Engineering Task Force.
The feature is critical for “improving the privacy and safety of individuals in the circumstance that those accessories are used to track their location without their knowledge or consent,” according to a draft of the proposed industry specification.
FOX Business has reported on police in various parts of the United States reporting some cases of people utilizing AirTags to harass others or track vehicles without permission.
Apple VP of Sensing and Connectivity, Ron Huang stated that they created AirTag and the Find My network with a set of proactive features to deter inappropriate tracking, a first in the industry, and they continue to make enhancements to assist guarantee the technology is utilized as intended. This new industry protocol expands on AirTag safeguards and represents an important step forward in combating unwanted tracking across iOS and Android.
Tracker identify, an app developed by Apple to identify unwanted tracking, is now available for Android users.
Apple and Google stated that they solicited input from manufacturers of Bluetooth location-tracking devices as well as other safety-focused organisations in drafting the proposed specification. According to the statement, Samsung, Tile, and numerous more firms have provided support.
According to the announcement, Apple and Google want to deliver a “production implementation” of the standard before the end of the year. After receiving comments from interested parties during a comment period, they will do so.
AirTags have been available for around two years. The quarter-sized devices were created to assist in “keeping track of and finding items that matter most,” such as bags and keys.
