Apple is Attempting to Make it Easier to Detect Unwanted AirTags
Later this year, the Company will deploy a Precision Finding Capability.
There have been reports of nefarious actors exploiting Apple's AirTags to stalk people in the months since they were on sale last spring. One of the most well-publicized occurrences occurred at the beginning of the year, when model Brooks Nader claimed that an AirTag had been implanted in her coat and that it had been used to follow her movements for several hours. Apple announced in a statement today that it would take additional efforts to avoid events like this from happening again.
In the near future, the business will upgrade the gadget to include a new warning that will be displayed to all users when they first set up their AirTag.
The message will tell you that tracking someone without their agreement is illegal in many places, and that if you misuse the device, police can request your information from Apple. To that end, the business states that it has already cooperated with law enforcement to track down abused AirTags and return them to their rightful owners.
At the same time, Apple will update its AirPods Pro, AirPods Max, and third-generation AirPods, as well as third-party devices that can connect to its Find My network, to prevent your iPhone from displaying a "Unknown Accessory Detected" alert. To avoid confusion, iOS will more clearly identify when you're travelling with a pair of someone else's AirPods.
Apple has also updated a help guide dedicated to unwanted tracking on its website to give further information on what to do if you feel someone is stalking you using its devices. In addition, the corporation has provided ties to groups such as the National Center for Victims of Crime to assist those who fear their safety is in danger.
Later this year, Apple will upgrade the iPhone 11, iPhone 12, and iPhone 13 to include a precision finding capability that will allow users to locate an unknown AirTag using those devices. An undesirable AirTag's direction and distance will be displayed by the utility. Apple also wants to upgrade its unwanted tracking notifications so that users are notified sooner if they are being stalked. Finally, the business will modify an AirTag's sound to make it as loud as possible, as well as provide a backup visual alert that will appear on your iPhone.
AirTag was created to help individuals find their personal possessions, not to track people or other people's property, and the firm condemned any harmful use of its goods in the harshest possible terms. Our products are designed to give a fantastic experience while also keeping your safety and privacy in mind. We're devoted to listening to feedback across Apple's hardware, software, and services organizations.
