Microsoft releases data-collection code for Wi-Fi access points

To address phone-user privacy problems, software giant Microsoft has released its source code for collecting Wi-Fi access point data, which is hosted on the Microsoft Development Network web site. “Microsoft is sharing relevant portions of the source code for our managed driving data collection software to provide those interested an opportunity to review the code we use for collection of such information," said Reid Kuhn, Microsoft Windows Phone Engineering Team partner group program manager, in a blog post late last week. Kuhn added, “The source code demonstrates both the type and amount of data we collect when surveying Wi-Fi access points through managed driving." Microsoft uses vehicles in “managed driving" to gather available data in building its databases to provide location-based services for Windows Phone 7, Kuhn noted. He said each vehicle is equipped with mobile phones that survey Wi-Fi access points and cell tower locations. “By building this database of available Wi-Fi access points and cell towers, we can provide the location capabilities and services for Windows Phone and Bing that consumers demand, including search results, weather, movie times, maps and directions based on a device’s current location," explained Kuhn. Developed by the Windows Phone Engineering team, the code uses publicly documented interfaces for accessing cell towers, Wi-Fi data access points, and GPS data, he said. Kuhn also said it includes other management and administrative functions related to provisioning, self-upgrade, self-recovery, and diagnostics. He, however, emphasized that the software does not intercept wireless data transmissions from consumers’ computers or the so-called “payload data." — PE/VS, GMA News