On Tuesday, Google and Apple announced that they were collaborating to stop unauthorized tracking of people by Bluetooth devices, such AirTags used to find missing products.

All Bluetooth location-tracking devices must notify consumers of any unwanted tracking on both iOS and Android smartphones, according to a draft specification that the firms have jointly filed.

The firms added that the specifications have backing from organizations including Samsung Electronics and consumer electronics company Tile in addition to input from device manufacturers and a number of safety and advocacy groups.

Since the introduction of AirTags, privacy experts and law enforcement have claimed that some users abuse the technology.

To help individuals locate missing belongings, AirTags are designed to be tucked inside or attached to bags, wallets, keys, and other objects.

Apple had released an Android detector software in 2021 to assist customers in scanning nearby AirTags or other comparable item trackers that might be traveling with them without their awareness.

Apple and Google both announced earlier in 2020 that they would prohibit the use of location tracking in apps that employ a contact tracing technique designed to slow the coronavirus’s spread.