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Comment by spinchange | Hacker News Reader

Is there a way to opt-out of Apple's location tracking altogether? I know apps usually request express user permission for it on a case by case basis, but the way I'm reading the new T&C, Apple and/or it's partners no longer need it in iOS 4. Is this correct?

It seems like the opt-out link mentioned in the article is just for iAds and relative to cookies, etc, and not location tracking.

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Settings -> turn off "location services". This will prevent any app from requesting this info. Of course, you're not going to be able to use Maps or other apps that require GPS. And of course, websites you visit can still use the same GeoIP tracking that they use for non-mobiles.

I'm aware of those settings, but it sounds like Apple is now at least reserving the right to collect and/or use some location data irrespective of, or in addition to those settings. I may be misunderstanding it or inferring too much, but that's the impression I got from the new T&C.

There was a link provided earlier to opt-out. http://oo.apple.com.

If you want complete anonymity, don't use a cell phone. Its unrealistic in today's world to expect it while also using connected devices.

EDIT: This is reality. If you think the loss of anonymity its wrong, I don't disagree. My comment was not to promote a personal opinion about what's right or wrong, but simply recognizing the obvious state of affairs. In today's world, some government entities do not believe privacy transfers to electronic mediums. In fact, the FTC has recognized that current law is not keeping up with new technology and mediums.

http://news.cnet.com/8301-13578_3-20008422-38.html

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