We previously wrote about Carrier IQ, the software embedded in millions of smartphones that can track nearly everything you do on your phone.
The following platforms are reported to be running Carrier IQ:
- iOS 3, 4, or 5 with the "Diagnostics and usage" option activated
- BlackBerry OS*
- WebOS
- Android
- Symbian (Nokia phones)
9to5Mac indicates that the Windows Phone 7 platform is unaffected, while The Verge reports that the Google Nexus One, Nexus S, Galaxy Nexus, and the original Xoom tablet are also not running the software.
John Gruber of Daring Fireball writes that "Assuming that The Verge’s source is from Google...it looks like Google is moving to distance itself and Android from Carrier IQ. If this turns into a scandal it’s going to get pinned — correctly, it seems at this point — on the carriers."
It's an interesting point because Verizon flat-out denies via tweet that Carrier IQ is running on a single Verizon-enabled device. We later confirmed this with a Verizon representative but bear in mind that Verizon still collects some data as outlined in its privacy policy.
*UPDATE: RIM has issued the following statement regarding Carrier IQ and BlackBerry devices --
RIM is aware of a recent claim by a security researcher that an application called “CarrierIQ” is installed on mobile devices from multiple vendors without the knowledge or consent of the device users. RIM does not pre-install the CarrierIQ app on BlackBerry smartphones or authorize its carrier partners to install the CarrierIQ app before sales or distribution. RIM also did not develop or commission the development of the CarrierIQ application, and has no involvement in the testing, promotion, or distribution of the app. RIM will continue to investigate reports and speculation related to CarrierIQ.
