Enhanced Unknown Tracker Alerts on Android
Google is bolstering Android's Unknown tracker alerts with two new features: Find Nearby and Temporarily Pause Location. These enhancements aim to provide users with greater control and privacy when dealing with unwanted tracking.
Find Nearby
This feature helps users pinpoint the exact location of an unknown tracker after receiving an alert. A visual guide, using Material You design, directs users to the tracker's location, making it easier to find and disable. This improves upon the existing "Play sound" functionality.
Temporarily Pause Location
This feature allows users to temporarily stop sharing their location data for up to 24 hours, preventing detected unknown trackers from using their device's location. This offers an immediate privacy measure while users locate and disable the tracker. For more information on related security enhancements, check out iOS 18.2: Enhanced AI, Security, and Bug Fixes.
Improved Alert Speed and Frequency
Google has also improved the underlying technology for Unknown tracker alerts, delivering notifications faster and more frequently. Users can access these alerts and manually scan for trackers under Settings > Safety & emergency. These updates are rolling out via Google Play services for Android 6+ devices. For insights into other Android updates, see Pixel Screenshots Update: Gboard Integration and More. To learn more about privacy features on other platforms, you can refer to Best Encrypted Messaging Apps for iPhone.