Apple has announced a handful of changes designed to improve AirTags' privacy. For example, the company plans to adjust the time it takes for AirTags to sound an alarm after they've been separated from their owner. An Android app is also said to be in the works.
As first reported by CNET reportedApple is rolling out this AirTag firmware update starting today. Side note: AirTags will automatically update when they're within range of a connected iPhone. With this firmware update, an AirTag will now play a sound after being separated from its owner within a certain time window—namely, "after eight hours and within 24 hours." The company is also developing an app for Android users that will alert them to an AirTag that may be moving with them.
To further reassure people about its AirTags, Apple said it is developing an app for Android devices that will help people "detect an AirTag or Find My Network-enabled device that may be traveling with them unexpectedly." The app is expected to be released later this year. "The recent launch of AirTag included the first proactive features that prevent unwanted tracking," Apple said in a statement. The steps, it added, represent a continued commitment to improving the privacy and security of AirTags.
It doesn't sound like this application will allow Android users to set up and use AirTag. Instead, the app will serve to alert Android users when an AirTag might be on the move with them.
AirTag: Stalking is said to be “frighteningly easy”
AirTag has an NFC chip inside that Android users can already use to identify an AirTag. The updates have now been announced after some concerns were raised about the impact of AirTag on privacy and stalking. Tests conducted by the Washington Post carried out Researchers found that AirTag stalking is "shockingly easy," despite the privacy protections implemented by Apple. A report by Mashable also raised concerns about the item tracker's privacy implications. Find out how to find out the latest firmware version of an AirTag below. Looking for suitable AirTag cases? Then take a look at Amazon. In our AirTag list you will find the trackers and accessories from Apple and third-party providers - enjoy browsing. (Photo by hadrian / Bigstockphoto)
