Apple will update its AirTags to prevent their fraudulent use

The AirTag, a tracking device launched in April 2021, has largely been diverted from its main use. Designed to precisely locate various everyday objects such as keys or bags, this connected accessory has unfortunately been used to track individuals, and even to steal cars. An advertisement that Apple would do without. The Apple brand has therefore tackled the problem head on by strengthening its collaboration with law enforcement and updating its tracker.

New alerts and more precise location

Apple has understood that smart guys had fun hijacking its AirTags to track people without their knowledge. Until now, Precision Location only worked with devices registered to your own Apple ID. When the iPhone detected an unknown AirTag, a pop-up window was displayed indicating its presence, without pointing to its exact location. The new update will allow it to be spotted more accurately. The iPhone will rely on data from the camera, ARKit, gyroscope, and accelerometer to guide the user to the unknown beacon.

The sound emitted by the tracking device will be accompanied by a notification on the smartphone to which it is paired. So, if the AirTag disappears from the location area of ​​the iPhone and can no longer be heard, an alert will appear indicating the move. The Cupertino company also plans to increase the sound volume of the unknown AirTag to facilitate identification.

This upcoming update is also expected to resolve alert issues seen on AirPods 3, AirPods Pro, and AirPods Max. In some cases, these devices could be detected as unknown objects, just like an AirTag that does not belong to you. To avoid being scared thinking of being tracked, the message “Unknown device” will therefore be modified to indicate that it is indeed AirPods.

Joint work with law enforcement

In its press release, Apple specifies that its documentation relating to law enforcement now indicates the various steps to follow in the event of an investigation related to an AirTag. We can also read that each tracking device is linked to a serial number, itself associated with an Apple ID. The company says it is ready to provide information about a linked account in case the police ask for it.

Through this information and these various updates, Apple tries to reassure vis-à-vis the misuse of its AirTag. If the accessory meets with some success, the diversions are quite numerous. In the interest of respect for privacy – a component dear to Apple – the company finally reacts, but perhaps a little late.