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Apple recently released the third beta of iOS 14.5, making minor changes along the way, and now clues have been discovered that relate to AirTags and other tracking accessories.
As the US blog 9to5mac reported, the third beta of iOS 14.5 includes an "Item Safety Feature" that helps prevent someone from stalking users with trackers like AirTags. The new feature was introduced by 9to5Mac contributor and developer Benjamin Mayo, who explains that when the feature is enabled, the iPhone will detect when someone is trying to track an AirTag or other Find My-compatible item. If the user chooses to turn the feature off, the Find My app will warn them that doing so "will allow the owner of an unknown item to see its location."
AirTags: Will Apple introduce the tracking accessory soon?
In the current beta of iOS 14.5, Apple has updated the “Items” section within the “Find My” app activated. Compatible items - including those from third parties - can be tracked in it. Interestingly, Apple already has important data protection functions in iOS 14.3 with regard to AirTags and Co. implemented. According to this, today's discovery is an extension. There are rumors that Apple could finally present the product this year. In the meantime, the month of March has even been predicted. Since Apple is obviously making preparations in iOS, an early presentation does not seem to be completely out of the question.
What exactly are AirTags?
Apple's AirTags are small trackers that can be attached to various objects. This accessory is by no means a new invention. But Apple wants to market them as a useful accessory - so they should have more to offer than competing products such as Tile or Adero - at least on a design level. Probably the biggest advantage is the deep integration into Apple devices. This makes management much easier. Whether macOS, iOS or iPadOS - the "Find My" app is available on all three systems. (Image via Jon Prosser)
