Google has recently started rolling out the “unknown tracker alerts” feature to Android 6.0+ users, as announced during this year’s Google I/O developer event. This feature protects users from unwanted Bluetooth tracking by notifying them if an unknown Bluetooth device is detected travelling with them.
Bluetooth trackers, also called tags, are small devices that can be attached to items, such as keys or a backpack, to help locate them if they get lost. However, these devices can also be misused to track others without their knowledge or consent. For example, someone could slip a tracker into someone else’s pocket or bag and follow their movements.
To prevent this, Google’s unknown tracker alerts function will automatically scan for unrelated Bluetooth trackers, such as the Apple AirTag, and promptly notify the user. The notification will alert the user to the tracker and tell them how to find it and what to do next. The user can also manually scan their surroundings for trackers at any time.
According to Google, the unknown tracker alerts feature works with widely used Bluetooth trackers, including Apple AirTags and all trackers compatible with the Google Find My Device network. Google also said that it will continue to work with tag manufacturers to expand this protection to other tracking tags over time through a joint industry specification.
Google claims that the unknown tracker alerts feature is designed to respect the privacy and security of both the tracker owners and the users who receive the alerts. The feature does not collect or share any personal information from the trackers or the users’ devices. The feature also does not interfere with the normal functioning of the trackers or affect their battery life.
Google stated that it cares deeply about user safety, which is why it gathered feedback from users, privacy and advocacy groups, and device manufacturers to help inform the design of the unknown tracker alerts feature. Google also said that it is committed to continuously improving how the feature works to help keep users safe on Android.
The unknown tracker alerts feature is part of Google’s efforts to enhance user privacy and security on Android. The unknown tracker alerts feature is currently rolling out to Android 6.0+ users this month. Users can check if they have received the feature by going to Settings → Safety & emergency → Unknown tracker alerts.
