iOS 17.5 will have safeguards against tracking devices

Apple released a beta version of iOS 17.5 for developers on Tuesday, in the internal code of which 9to5Mac found evidence of a system to protect against device tracking by potential attackers. Last year, Apple announced a partnership with Google to create an “industry specification to combat unwanted tracking.”

A notice has been added to the Find My app code confirming that iOS will identify tracking accessories even if they are not certified by Apple or Find My and allow users to disable them.

“This device is not certified on the Apple Find My network. You can disable it and prevent it from transmitting its location to its owner. To do this, follow the instructions provided on the product manufacturer’s website,” the notice says.

According to 9to5Mac, this feature is currently not available for beta users, but its appearance should be expected with the official release of iOS 17.5.

iOS currently allows you to detect unwanted Bluetooth devices for location tracking, as long as they are Find My certified. There is also an application for the Android platform to detect AirTags. Apple and Google have promised a new universal system for iOS and Android that will detect and warn about unwanted tracking accessories.

Apple is expected to release iOS 17.5 next month.