Apple and Google, two of the biggest tech giants, have recently come together to stop unwanted tracking and address a potential privacy issue with Apple’s AirTag tracking devices. Often it’s called a “Battle of the Titans” when these two giants are at one place but this time they are together and not against for a good cause.
AirTag is a small, coin-shaped device that can be attached to items such as keys or wallets to help locate them using Apple’s Find My app. However, there were concerns that these devices could be used to track people without their consent, leading to potential stalking or other privacy violations.
This collaboration between two industry leaders demonstrates a commitment to consumer privacy and shows how technology can be used to address potential risks while still delivering innovative products.
As it is not an everyday thing that we see rivals so big come together so it did deserve a commendation. This came from Alexandra Reeve Givens, the Center for Democracy & Technology’s president and CEO saying, “We commend Apple and Google for their partnership and dedication to developing a uniform solution to improve detectability.”
The rivalry between Apple and Google is long-standing starting when Google launched its Android operating system in 2007 as a competitor to Apple’s iOS. But the two have proved in the past too that they can come together when it’s necessary to fight evil in society.
A similar example of this was seen in 2014 when Apple and Google agreed to settle their long-running patent dispute and work together to reform patent law.
To do the needful Apple and Google have put in a draft proposal titled Detecting Unwanted Location Trackers. Apple’s official blog says, “The first-of-its-kind specification will allow Bluetooth location-tracking devices to be compatible with unauthorized tracking detection and alerts across iOS and Android platforms.”
Signs of change are quite visible from recent decisions being taken by tech giants may it be Google’s decision to add end-to-end encryption to Authenticator or the launch of more decentralized platforms like Mastodon.
This partnership also serves as a reminder that even the biggest rivals can come together to fight a common cause. As technology continues to advance, it is essential for companies to prioritize consumer privacy and safety, and this collaboration sets a high bar for others to follow.
Source: Apple Newsroom
