A new feature introduced by the US-based technology giant Google at the “Google I/O 2023” events has started to reach Android users. The new feature called “Unknown tracker alerts” seems to be an effective weapon in ensuring the safety of users. So what does this feature do and how can it be used?
Companies such as Apple and Samsung have produced devices such as “AirTag”, “Galaxy SmartTag” in the past years. These GPS-based devices allow tracking the whereabouts of an object. Lost finders with Bluetooth connection support have been actively used not only for belongings but also for pets. However, these devices could also be used for malicious purposes such as tracking individuals.
Here’s Android’s new feature will prevent users from being tracked!
The new feature that Google offers to users allows automatic alerts to be sent when an unidentified device on your smartphone starts to move with you. Think about it this way: Someone put a SmartTag in your car to track you, and you don’t even know about it. Bluetooth waves emitted by the device will be automatically detected on smartphones with Andorid 6 and higher operating system, and a notification will be sent to the phone. Moreover, the user will be able to play the warning sound of the device that he has not paired. In this way, the location of the device can be determined.
Users who do not want to be content with automatic notifications will be able to manually scan for unknown tracking devices if they wish. Thus, if there is a suspicious situation, a search can be made in an area with the phone. In the meantime, important information such as the serial number of a detected tracking device and what can be done to avoid tracking will be explained to the users.
How to do a tracker scan on Android phones?
- Step #1: Enter the “Settings” section.
- Step #2: Tap on the “Security & emergency” option.
- Step #3: Enter the “Unknown trackers” section.
The new feature that Google has started to distribute for Pixel phones will be available to all Android users after a while. It is not clear for now whether the feature will be offered by smartphone manufacturers on the basis of interfaces or whether it will be delivered by Google.