Bluetooth trackers have quickly become a hot tech commodity. While companies like Tile have offered Bluetooth-powered tags for years, it was Apple’s AirTags that helped these tiny devices achieve mainstream popularity. If you’re on Android, you usually have to download a separate app from the tag manufacturer to monitor, scan and control your device. But it appears that Google may soon let you scan for nearby trackers without downloading a third-party app.
A recent APK teardown from 9to5Google reveals that Google is working on integrating Bluetooth tracker detection capability right into Android. The feature will be part of the Google Play Services, so it should allow Google to bring it to the masses with minimum effort. Within the latest version of the Play Services, 9to5Google has found strings related to “Unfamiliar device alerts” and an “Unfamiliar Tag Detected Notification” for Bluetooth Low Energy tags.
In addition to detecting, it looks like Google will also allow Android users to ring an identified tag. This will be similar to how Apple lets you play a sound on unknown AirTags.
It’s not confirmed yet, so even though it’s appearing inside source code, it is not known when it may go live.
See https://www.xda-developers.com/google-bluetooth-tracker-detection-feature-android-in-development/
#technology #tracking #android #airtags