Apple adds Find My Mac tool for developers using iCloud
updated 02:30 am EDT, Thu August 4, 2011
Offers location, remote lock or wipe options
Apple continues to give developers working with the iCloud preview new features to test, earlier today unveiling a Find My Mac feature similar to the popular Find My iPhone service, even though current Macs lack GPS capabilities, AppleInsider reports (quoting MacRumors). The service uses Wi-Fi triangulation, a technique originally used in early iPhone models, to identify the location of the tracked device.
Users have several options once a Mac is located, ranging from playing a sound (to help locate a lost portable) to remotely wiping the hard drive (sending a message or locking the screen are other options). The service is expected to be part of the public rollout of iCloud, a free suite of internet-based services, beginning sometime this fall. Apple briefly -- and apparently accidentally -- opened partial access to the iCloud beta on Tuesday for some AppleID holders before closing it off to registered developers only.
Once a Mac is remotely locked by a user, a four-digit PIN code is needed to regain access. Most services of iCloud, including revamped MobileMe web apps, personal storage and a photo-streaming service, will be free -- additional storage will be available for a small yearly fee. [via AppleInsider]
