Apple to Increase AirTag Privacy Measures, Release Android App That Can Detect Tracker [Report]

Apple has announced that it is taking steps to increase privacy measures for its AirTag tracker. While these measures could help prevent stalking, they also make AirTag less useful for tracking stolen items.

The company told CNET that it is reducing the time it takes AirTag to make a noise when separated from its owner. Additionally, the company is creating new ways to warn people an unknown AirTag is nearby.

The tech giant said Thursday it's begun sending out updates to its AirTags, changing the window of time they'll make noises when potentially being used to track another person. Initially, the Apple device would play in three days. Now it'll begin to play at a random time inside a window that lasts between 8 and 24 hours.


Additionally, Apple is developing an app from Android that will help people 'detect' an AirTag or Find My device that could be travelling with them. This capability is built in to iOS devices but not currently available to Android users.

"The recent introduction of AirTag included industry-first proactive features that discourage unwanted tracking," Apple said in a statement. It notes that today's announcement represents a continued commitment to improving AirTag privacy and security.

You can purchase an AirTag tracker for $29 or get four for $99.

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