Apple Is Updating AirTag to Address Privacy Concerns

Apple AirTag is receiving an replace that can change the time interval after which it performs a sound when separated from its proprietor. This is basically to handle issues over whether or not AirTags might probably be used to stalk somebody. In addition to altering the alert timing, Apple has introduced its plans to convey an Android app to let a bigger variety of folks detect an AirTag separated from its proprietor. The new AirTag-focussed bulletins notably come simply days earlier than the start of WWDC 2021 — this yr’s version of Apple’s developer convention.

As first reported by CNET, Apple is bringing an replace to the AirTag that can shorten the time interval after which it performs an alerting sound when separated from its proprietor. The Cupertino firm stated that as a substitute of giving a window of three days, the replace is chopping the interval to a “random time” between eight and 24 hours. This implies that an AirTag would play the sound anytime between the brand new time interval when separated from its proprietor and alert close by folks.

The change addresses issues that some folks raised concerning the AirTag — that it might permit people to secretly track others. The new time interval is, nevertheless, nonetheless lengthy sufficient for folks to be tracked with out their information. Nonetheless, the situation of selecting a random time means the homeowners of AirTags wouldn’t know precisely once they could be a capable of play the alerting sound after the eight-hour interval.

Apple confirmed to Gadgets 360 that the software program replace altering the time interval for the AirTag will begin rolling out immediately. It will attain your AirTag routinely when it comes into the proximity of your iPhone or iPad — much like how Apple supplies updates to AirPods.

In addition to the replace, Apple has confirmed to Gadgets 360 than an Android app for AirTag is coming later this yr. It will permit customers to detect an AirTag separated from its proprietor and could also be unsuspectedly “traveling” with them. The app may also work with different Find My network-enabled units. This is one other step to handle issues over possibilities of folks abuse the AirTag or Find My network-enabled units to surreptitiously observe others.

Apple is presently busy making ready for the WWDC 2021 occasion, which can begin Monday, June 7. The firm is probably going to supply some particulars about the way it might broaden the utilization of AirTag and bolster its Find My community at that digital convention.