Object trackers like the Galaxy SmartTag are pretty helpful in finding misplaced or stolen objects, but they can also be very dangerous when those devices are used to track people without their consent. To limit unwanted tracking through location trackers, Apple has partnered with Google, and Samsung is interested in this new privacy technology.
Apple announced that it has joined hands with Google to create an “industry specification to address unwanted tracking.” The two companies will draft new specifications to alert users when AirTags or other Bluetooth trackers are possibly tracking them. Right now, Apple devices offer a way to stop unwanted tracking, but those features are limited to Apple devices. It also released the Tracker Detect app for Android smartphones, but it only detects AirTags and works only when launched. So, there is clearly a need to create a system-wide service that can detect unwanted location trackers in the background.
With the new industry specification developed by Apple and Google, devices running other operating systems, such as Android phones and tablets, can avoid unwanted tracking. This feature could come to Galaxy devices in the future. The companies have submitted their tracker detection mechanism as an Internet-Draft via the IETF (Internet Engineering Task Force).
Samsung has expressed interest in this new initiative and has expressed support for the draft specification. Other location tracker brands, including Chipolo, Eufy, Pebblebee, and Tile, are also interested in this technology and could support the feature in the future. This feature will come to Android and iOS devices by the end of 2023.
