Apple and Google join forces on unwanted tracking

Two of the biggest technology companies of our time and major competitors in almost every available category, have decided to join forces to address in time one of the major problems that have come to the fore due to the use of tracking devices, such as AirTags.

Tracking devices were created in order to be placed on various objects belonging to users so that they can see where they are at all times, such as suitcases, purses, keys, bags, etc. The problem, however, is that some people are taking advantage of their capabilities to track people by placing the trackers on their belongings without the latter's knowledge.

When Apple first launched AirTags, it had mentioned some safeguards that could prevent people from being tracked, but it is obvious that there is still a lot of work needed to eliminate the phenomenon. The new partnership with Google is about jointly setting standards that can be met by any interested manufacturer of such devices, so that the problem can be collectively addressed.

For now there is nothing to announce beyond the launch of the collaboration, as the specifications are expected to be revealed in late 2023. The important thing, however, is that most trackers manufacturers have shown interest in the effort, including Samsung, Tile and Chipolo. The draft will be submitted to the IETF (Internet Engineering Task Force) to be thoroughly tested and then the appropriate adjustments will be made to lead to the final version.