Apple updates iOS to address iPad and iPhone location-tracking issues

Apple has posted an update to remove a set of controversial location tools from its iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch lines.

The company had promised an update for iOS after reports surfaced that the devices were recording and uploading logs of user locations.

The data in the cache was taken from triangulation methods which use Wi-Fi and cellular data tower information to help pinpoint locations.

Apple said that the iOS 4.33 update changes the way the handsets store and handle crowd-sourced location placement features. The update will reduce the size of the cache and delete it entirely when the device is powered off.

Additionally, backups of the cache will no longer be transmitted when owners synchronise their smartphone or tablet with a Mac or PC through iTunes.

The update should allay privacy fears which arose when the tracking features were publicised by two security researchers and highlighted by members of the US Congress.

Apple soon broke its silence on the matter when chief executive Steve Jobs corresponded with a customer, and the company posted a statement explaining the issue and promising an update.