Essential privacy functions on the iPhone you should be aware of
Apple's latest iOS versions, 18 and the upcoming 26, are packed with advanced privacy features designed to protect user data on iPhones. These updates emphasize app-level privacy controls, browsing protection, email anonymity, and closing critical security holes.
One of the key features is the ability to hide and lock sensitive apps, such as banking or dating apps, using Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode. This ensures that these apps remain hidden from view and require authentication before access, providing an extra layer of protection against unauthorized snooping.
Safari, Apple's web browser, has been improved with the addition of Intelligent Tracking Prevention as a default feature in iOS 26 (currently in public beta and set to roll out fully in the Fall). This AI-powered tool blocks and confuses tracking techniques from third parties, minimizing digital footprints while browsing.
The "Hide My Email" feature is another privacy boon. It allows users to generate random email addresses to protect their personal email when signing up for services, which can be easily managed via iCloud. All emails sent to these random addresses are forwarded to the user's personal inbox.
Apple's focus on user security is also evident in the Stolen Device Protection option in the native Find My app. This feature provides an extra layer of protection for Apple accounts if a device is lost or stolen.
Additionally, Safari's Privacy Report feature shows users the number of trackers on a website that are being prevented, trackers contacted by websites such as Google Analytics, and how many trackers Safari has blocked over the past 30 days.
The Call Screening feature, another privacy-focused addition, asks callers to identify themselves and give a reason for the call before connecting.
It's worth noting that access to the Hide My Email feature requires an iCloud+ subscription.
iOS 18.6 addressed 29 security vulnerabilities impacting key areas such as Safari, WebKit, CoreMedia, CoreAudio, and CFNetwork. These updates significantly enhance security and privacy protection against web-based threats.
While iOS 26 is not fully detailed yet, it is expected to continue and possibly expand on these privacy features, given Apple’s consistent focus on user security and privacy. Overall, these iOS versions are a testament to Apple's commitment to safeguarding user data on iPhones.
[1] Apple's official website [2] TechCrunch article [3] 9to5Mac article
- Users can now benefit from the addition of smartphones like iPhones with advanced technology, such as Intelligent Tracking Prevention in Safari, which is designed to minimize digital footprints while browsing, thereby enhancing privacy.
- With the Hide My Email feature, one of the privacy-focused gadgets introduced by Apple, users can protect their personal emails by generating random email addresses when signing up for services, adding an extra layer of security to their online activities.
