Apple's device tracking feature, "Find My," will be available in South Korea through the iOS 18.4 update. This feature comes six years after its global launch and 15 years after the introduction of its predecessor, "Find My iPhone."
According to industry sources, Apple recently distributed the iOS 18.4 developer beta version, which includes support for the "Find My" service in South Korea. This allows users to locate their devices, such as iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches, as well as AirTags and accessories in the Find My network, and receive route guidance.
Previously, the "Find My" app was pre-installed on domestic iPhones but had limited functionality. However, since the iOS 18.4 beta update, the current locations of Apple devices are now accurately displayed.
Since the introduction of the "Find My iPhone" feature in 2010, Apple expanded its offerings with the "Find My" feature utilizing Bluetooth in 2019, but it had not provided support in South Korea for over a decade due to regulatory issues regarding map export restrictions, surveying laws, and location information laws. However, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport and the Korea Communications Commission noted that "there are no regulations limiting Apple's service provision," prompting criticism that Apple's stance is incorrect.
As the controversy grew, Apple announced through its official newsroom in September last year that it would support the "Find My" feature in South Korea starting in spring 2025. Following the confirmation of this feature in the iOS 18.4 developer beta version, it is expected to be officially supported in the general version, which will be released in April. However, there are some issues in the current beta version, such as certain features not being activated and device information not being displayed correctly, indicating that improvements are needed.
Meanwhile, the iOS 18.4 update also includes support for the "Apple Intelligence" AI system in Korean, in addition to the introduction of the "Find My" feature. Additional updates, such as enhancements to Siri's performance, are also scheduled to be released in the coming months.
Recently, Apple has shown efforts to resolve the allegations of discrimination in the South Korean market. Last year, the iPhone 16 series was included in the first batch of countries for launch, and the iPhone 16e, which was unveiled on the 21st, will also be released in the first batch. The introduction of the "Find My" feature marks a significant shift in Apple's strategy for the South Korean market.