In 2023, Apple and Google together announced to bring a new standard to a reduction of the misuse of location-based tracking. After that, at Google I/O 2023, this feature was made official as Unknown Tracker Alerts for Android. Now, according to the official Google press release, this feature is finally going live for Android users. Let’s explore more about the new features.
Google Official Statement
“We care deeply about your safety, which is why we made sure to gather feedback from users, privacy and advocacy groups, and device manufacturers to help inform us as we designed unknown tracker alerts. We are committed to continuously working to improve how unknown tracker alerts work to help keep you safe on Android.”
Unauthorized Tracking Alert Features
First: Now your Android device will get an alert whenever a “foreign” tracker is separated from its actual owner and if it is traveling with you. You will be able to expand that notification and see the exact location where the tracker supposedly came in contact with you. A “Play Sound” option will enable you to trigger a noise on the tracker that only you will be able to hear in order to locate the tracker.
Second: If you are able to track the tracker, Google will provide you with tips on how you can physically disable the tracker. Bringing the tracker to the back of your smartphone can give off vital information about it that might come in handy. Please note that some key information like the serial number of the tracker, details about the owner, the last four digits of their phone number, and so on can help you take legal action.
Third: This new Unknown Tracker Alerts feature is now able to manually scan your surrounding to make sure you are actually free from intrusive tracking attempts. This new feature aims to help us stay safe and protect our privacy while using Android phones.
