Apple Introduces Find My Certification Asst. for MFi Licensees

Apple has recently released a new application, Find My Certification Asst., specifically intended for use by MFi (Made for iPhone) Licensees. This tool is designed to facilitate testing of accessory interoperability with Apple’s Find My network.

Expanding the Find My Network

The Find My network currently assists users in locating misplaced Apple devices – including iPhones, AirPods, and Mac computers. It is now being expanded to encompass support for locating compatible accessories produced by third-party manufacturers.

The availability of this testing application suggests that Apple is preparing to formally announce the launch of the third-party device program in the coming weeks.

App Functionality and Certification

As detailed in the app’s description, MFi Licensees can utilize Find My Certification Asst. to evaluate crucial aspects of their accessories. These include discovery processes, connection protocols, and other essential requirements for integration with Apple’s Find My network technology.

Further information regarding the Find My network certification program can be found on Apple’s MFi Portal at mfi.apple.com. The portal currently lists Find My network as an MFi program technology that is “launching soon.”

Comprehensive Testing Capabilities

Screenshots of the new application reveal its ability to conduct a diverse range of tests. These tests cover areas such as connectivity, audio functionality (including the ability to emit a sound for locating misplaced items), firmware integrity, key management, NFC, and power performance.

App Availability and Initial Reception

The application was made available to the public on Sunday, April 4th, as reported by Sensor Tower data. Currently, it does not rank within any App Store categories, even its own “Developer Tools” section.

At this time, the app has not received any user ratings or reviews.

Broader Implications for Third-Party Integration

This app launch represents a significant step towards Apple’s objective of opening up the Find My network to third-party devices. It also aligns with the planned release of Apple’s own accessory, AirTags.

Apple initially announced its intention to open Find My to third-party devices during last year’s Worldwide Developer Conference. This decision followed scrutiny from regulators in the U.S. and Europe.

Addressing Competitive Concerns

Tile, a prominent Apple critic, had voiced concerns that AirTags would leverage Apple’s U1 chips and UWB (ultra-wideband) technology for enhanced precision in locating items. During a Congressional hearing, Tile highlighted that AirTags would integrate with Apple’s native Find My app, pre-installed on all Apple devices.

Tile argued this would provide Apple with an unfair advantage in the lost-item finder market, a sector they had previously established and led for several years.

Apple’s Response and UWB Access

In response to these concerns, Apple granted third-party developers access to its U1 chip through the “NearbyInteraction” framework last year. Consequently, Tile announced plans in January 2021 to introduce a new tracker powered by UWB technology.

Updates to the Find My App

Recently, Apple updated its Find My app to include a dedicated “Items” tab. This addition prepares the app for expanded support of AirTags and other third-party accessories, including those from Tile and similar companies.

The “Items” tab was enabled in the latest iOS 14.5 beta release, providing users with information on how the Find My app will now assist in tracking everyday items and compatible accessories.

Ongoing Concerns Regarding Data Control

However, Tile, and likely other companies, maintain that Apple’s concessions still create disadvantages. Participation in the FindMy program necessitates that third-party device manufacturers abandon their existing applications and instead direct their customers to utilize Apple’s FindMy app.

This effectively transfers customer data and control to Apple.

Iconography and Potential Integrations

Notably, the app’s icon features representations of headphones, a backpack, and a suitcase. This may foreshadow potential integrations with companies like Tile, who initially collaborated with Bose headphones, luggage manufacturer Away, and bag maker Herschel.

Apple has not yet issued a response to requests for comment regarding the launch of the new application.