Apple Releases iOS 4.3.3 To The World - Stops Your iDevice From Constantly Tracking You
May 4, 2011
Way ahead of the rumored release two weeks from now, Apple has just pushed out a new version of iOS to the world.
According to the update notes, iOS 4.3.3 (or 4.2.8 for Verizon iPhone owners) reduces the size of the widely publicized crowd-sourced location database that iOS devices maintained. This databas allowed anyone with access to your computer or iDevice to see everywhere you ever went. More precisely, your iOS device will now retain that information for a shorter period of time, or not at all if you disabled location services. Furthermore, this cache will no longer be saved to your computer when you back up your device.
The discovery of this tracking procedure has caused quite an uproar, dubbed "Locationgate" over the last couple weeks, until Apple finally addressed it. Of course, if you're using location-based apps and give your consent when asked, there are still many apps that will keep track of where you've been.
At least, you'll be glad to know your iDevice and Apple aren't snooping on you as much anymore. As for the privacy freaks, you're honestly better off without a smart phone or any phone to begin with.