AFAIK they have always done that. It’s always been tied to the Vin/Registration. I have never heard of a cop actually checking an inspection sticker in a routine stop, Though I have heard that some troopers will do it becuase they can.
FWIW, also if you ever buy a vehicle, and it has a valid NYS inspection, you still are legally supposed to go pay to have it inspected again as that sticker is tied to the PO’s registration.