New features on iOS 17.5 help iPhone users limit being tracked

Last year, Apple announced a partnership with Google to research a new standard to address unwanted tracking, after concerns were raised about accessories like AirTags being misused to track others.

Detect and disable unwanted tracking accessories

9to5Mac found evidence of the new anti-tracking feature in the internal code of iOS 17.5 beta, released to developers. Code snippets added to the Find My app reveal that iOS will identify tracking accessories, even if they are not certified by Apple or Find My, and help users disable them.

'This item is not certified on the Apple Find My network. You can disable this and prevent it from sharing its location with the owner. To do this, follow the instructions provided on the website by the manufacturer of this item'.

New features on iOS 17.5 help iPhone users limit being tracked Picture 1

This feature does not appear to be enabled for beta users currently, but this is strong evidence that it is likely that the anti-tracking feature will be released with the official iOS 17.5 version.

Previously, Apple and Google said they would create a new universal system for iOS and Android to detect and warn users about unwanted tracking accessories. Currently, iOS can detect unwanted Bluetooth location tracking devices, but only if they are Find My certified. The company also offers an Android app to detect AirTags, see more here.

Companies including Samsung, Tile, Chipolo, Eufy and Pebblebee have expressed interest in supporting the technology.

What's new in iOS 17.5 beta?

iOS 17.5 beta doesn't seem to bring any significant changes as we've only seen a few minor tweaks so far. Apple will likely release the official iOS 17.5 version next month, as rumors suggest that the company will launch new iPads and accessories in May.

Readers who want to experience iOS 17.5 beta can access Settings - General - Software Update - Download and Install.

Lesley Montoya

Update 04 April 2024