Google wants to combat stalking with a bluetooth tag tracker

It is becoming more and more popular for companies to make tracking devices. Think, for example, of Tile, but also of Apple’s AirTag. The only downside is that you have to download separate apps from Tile and Apple to see if you’re a victim of tracking. Google wants to change that.

What’s new in Google Play Services

In a new update for Google Play Services (22.21.13, Courtesy of 9to5Google) Signals were found to an unknown device signal, intended to detect unknown signs traveling after you. This functionality is expected to be available soon under the Settings menu under Safety & Emergency.

There are references in the app to ATag, Tile tag, Finder Tag, and ATag probably refers to a file AirTag from Apple. So it looks like the technology has to be set up specifically for each type of tag, so if all other types of companies are also doing their own tags, Google has the work to do. At the same time, it can greatly improve the security of Android users. Imagine someone at the pub tossing a tag in your bag and following you home this way, this new gadget from Google should tag you and hopefully you can find the tracker before you even get home.