Apple is often praised for its commitment to user privacy, but this article proves that it may not be as transparent as it claims. For nearly a decade, Apple allowed apps to track users’ locations without giving them the option to disable this feature or even informing them about it. This capability is activated when the device scans nearby WiFi access points, even when the device is locked. The HotspotHelper API, introduced in iOS 9, allows developers to register for WiFi network information, potentially enabling them to track users’ locations without their consent. Major apps like WeChat and Alipay have already implemented this capability, raising concerns about privacy. The author calls for Apple to provide users with the option to disable this feature and for apps to explicitly seek permission before accessing it.
https://wingu.se/2023/11/30/only-apple-can-do-allow-apps-tracking-users-location-without-consensus.html