A Feature Of iOS 8 randomly changes MAC Address when scanning for Wifi

[RedRound2]

One particular quirk, as just discovered by one eagle-eyed beta user, definitely advocates user privacy in that in randomizes your device’s MAC address before you connect to a Wi-Fi hotspot, which also serves as a kick in the teeth for companies whose entire business is based on logging and tracking this information.

 

When a device running iOS 7 or earlier goes out looking for a connection, it exposes your device’s MAC address. With some companies strategically placing hotspots in all manner of places – including trash cans – to get a hold of your data and log where you’re headed, iOS 8 fights your corner by obscuring your MAC address with a random, spoof address that periodically changes.

 

This means that not only is your real MAC address being protected, but these entities that thrive off the information will not be able to trace you, and given how accustomed we’ve become to having our rights waived in pandering to the corporate interest

 

You can see why some businesses have capitalized on this information divulged by your device’s straying signal. After all, it’s a good way of keeping track of, say, how many smartphone users are entering the vicinity – particularly if your product is of interest to this group – but with iOS 8, those utilizing this signal will have to look into alternative strategies.

 

 

 

 

So, among the many other less prominent features of iOS 8, Apple has now rolled out MAC address spoofing. Given how much of a vested interest Apple shows in protecting the privacy of its users, it’s not all that surprising, but nonetheless, it will be gratefully received by consumers and conversely, met with dismay by those in the field of data tracking and marketing.

 

Source: http://www.redmondpie.com/new-secret-feature-of-ios-8-strikes-a-massive-win-for-privacy-heres-how-it-works/

[Sidiox]

Does it always automaticly spoof the MAC adress or only when connecting for the first time? Otherwise things like binding permanent IP is impossible.

[thedigitalmilk]

This, this i like, apple you done a good thing.

[Toxic Tom]

That is actually such a beast feature.

Sadly not enough to counter the "no more headphone jacks" issue.

[RedRound2]

That is actually such a beast feature.

Sadly not enough to counter the "no more headphone jacks" issue.

 

I don't think they'll remove the headphone jack. They're just making an option to get better audio out of a phone for audio enthusiasts. That was just a misconception when they release MFi for lightning headphones. And if they ever wanted to make the phone thinner they could just go with 2.5mm audio jack. And I do think Apple will be the first ones to remove the headphone jack but not until bluetooth headphones goes mainstream

[Toxic Tom]

I don't think they'll remove the headphone jack. They're just making an option to get better audio out of a phone for audio enthusiasts. That was just a misconception when they release MFi for lightning headphones. And if they ever wanted to make the phone thinner they could just go with 2.5mm audio jack. And I do think Apple will be the first ones to remove the headphone jack but not until bluetooth headphones goes mainstream

If you think that is a feature to improve sound quality for audio enthusiasts, you are very much mistaken. It is simply a means for Apple to further engulf you in their walled garden.

[euniqe]

goodbye router mac address filtering

[juretrn]

Google, we need this on Android!

[mr moose]

 And I do think Apple will be the first ones to remove the headphone jack but not until bluetooth headphones goes mainstream

 

Samsung have already released a phone that uses the USB connection to connect the headphones solely for eliminating the 2.5mm jack.

[Derangel]

goodbye router mac address filtering

 

Mac address filtering is 100% useless. It is pathetically easy to spoof a Mac address and get around filtering. Never use it.

[Geekazoid]

Yes, I've read about this. It's great that Apple has done this. I don't need anyone tracking me, who does? Who knows what data those companies are obtaining. This is certainly going to get several organisations annoyed and possibly angry. But I say that they shouldn't be tracking and logging our information anyway, especially without our consent.

[Bonn]

Extensions of 802.11d but in enterprise organisations if you're allowed to use their wireless on personal devices, there will be network/server side controls that override this anyway. Only beneficial for 'public' hotspots and being naughty on your neighbours wireless.

[wpirobotbuilder]

Badass. I wonder if advertisers will end up fighting this, but Apple tends to find a way to get what they want.

[Guest]

Out of curiosity does it also spoof the OUI part of the MAC? Or just everything after it?