Apple and Google have proposed a new standard to combat the misuse of Bluetooth devices for location tracking. The two mobile phone manufacturers are asking other manufacturers and providers to endorse the specification, which allows Bluetooth location tracking devices to be compatible with unauthorized tracking detection and alerts on iOS and Android platforms. Samsung, Tile, Chipolo, eufy Security and Pebblebee have all expressed support for the design specification, and Apple and Google have also solicited input from various safety and advocacy groups. The specification has been submitted as an Internet Draft through the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF), and interested parties are invited to comment over the next three months. Bluetooth 4.1 enables Bluetooth networking, which is a critical step forward to help combat unwanted tracking in iOS and Android.
