As if I needed one, here's another reason I'll never buy an iPad or iPhone. The new updated iTunes terms of service give Apple the absolute right and power to collect and share your "precise, real-time location".
Like, there's no way this could ever be abused, right? Not by stalkers or marketers or the government, oh no. Never. C'mon, we're Apple, trust us.
That's right, he new version of iTunes showing up on your computer right about now has new, non-negotiable terms of service. If you install it, you "agree" to allow Apple to collect precise information about your location in real time and use it, sell it, or give it away. Apple promises that its location data is "collected anonymously in a form that does not personally identify you." Of course, AOL thought that the search data it released was anonymous and didn't personally identify people, and (GASP!) it turns out they they were wrong.
Privacy Change: Apple Knows Where Your Phone Is And Is Telling People
Here's the relevant excerpt:
"To provide location-based services on Apple products, Apple and our partners and licensees may collect, use, and share precise location data, including the real-time geographic location of your Apple computer or device. This location data is collected anonymously in a form that does not personally identify you and is used by Apple and our partners and licensees to provide and improve location-based products and services. For example, we may share geographic location with application providers when you opt in to their location services.
Some location-based services offered by Apple, such as the MobileMe “Find My iPhone” feature, require your personal information for the feature to work."
