Apple is set to introduce significant updates to its Safari Private Browsing feature, aiming to provide users with stronger protection against third-party trackers while they surf the web.
The tech giant stated that the upcoming improvements include advanced tracking and fingerprinting safeguards that take additional measures to prevent websites from utilizing the latest techniques to track or identify a user's device. Moreover, Private Browsing will now automatically lock when inactive, allowing users to maintain open tabs even when stepping away from their device.
These privacy enhancements were recently showcased at Apple's annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) and are expected to be integrated into iOS 17, iPadOS 17, and macOS Sonoma later this year. One notable change is the introduction of Link Tracking Protection in Mail, Messages, and Safari's private mode, which will automatically remove tracking parameters present in URLs. These parameters are often used to gather information about a user's clicks.
Apple's Craig Federighi expressed his excitement about the updates, describing Safari as a pioneering force in private browsing and an exemplar of privacy and security features. He emphasized the significance of addressing privacy threats posed by internet browsing.
iOS will also feature a new embedded Photos picker that allows users to selectively share specific photos with other apps while keeping the rest of their photo library private. Furthermore, Apple is expanding the scope of Communication Safety, a feature that alerts children when sending or receiving explicit images in Messages, to encompass video content. Additionally, Communication Safety will be extended to AirDrop, FaceTime video messages, and the Photos picker.
The privacy-focused technology underlying Communication Safety will also be leveraged to power Sensitive Content Warning, an optional setting that helps adult users avoid unsolicited receipt of nude images and videos through Messages, AirDrop, or FaceTime video messages. Another notable addition is the ability to securely share a set of passwords and passkeys through iCloud Keychain by creating a group, enabling individuals within the group to add and edit passwords collaboratively.
Apple is also enhancing Lockdown Mode, which introduces improvements such as safer wireless connectivity defaults, enhanced media handling and sharing defaults, reinforced sandboxing, and optimized network security. The company highlights that turning on Lockdown Mode fortifies device defenses and restricts certain functionalities, significantly reducing the attack surface, particularly for individuals targeted by mercenary spyware due to their identity or occupation.
With these updates, Apple is reinforcing its commitment to user privacy and providing users with increased control over their personal information and online activities.
