iOS 18 Includes Enhanced Privacy and Security Features, New Apps
Apple announced it will release iOS 18 on September 16th, and with it comes a slate of new features for iPhone users to dive into.
While these OS updates may focus on customization, updates to existing applications and new features, they often come with revamped privacy and security settings all device owners should have on their radar.
iOS 18 will be no exception.
Here are some of the privacy and security features you should know about ahead of the release of Apple’s latest operating system update.
Apple Introduces Passwords App
In its release of iOS 18, Apple will introduce its new Passwords application. The Passwords app allows Apple users to store their login credentials across all of their devices, including iPhones, iPads and Apple Vision Pro. Windows device owners can also use Passwords via iCloud.
Apple states login credentials stored in the Passwords app will be protected by end-to-end encryption. The Passwords app includes sections for passwords and logins, passkeys, multifactor authentication codes and Wi-Fi passwords.
Passwords also includes a dedicated security section, which lets users know if a password is being reused, is too weak and if it has been compromised in a data breach.
While the app does offer convenience for iPhone users, BlackCloak still recommends using a third-party password manager, such as 1Password. External password managers are better suited to be used across multiple devices and platforms, and are far safer to use compared to an app residing on a device, which could be at risk should it be lost or stolen.
Tap to Cash Offers Secure Payments
Also included in iOS 18 is the Tap to Cash feature, which allows Apple devices users to send money to one another.
The feature facilitates the transfer when both parties place their Apple devices next to each other, as long as both have iOS 18 installed and Apple Cash enabled.
Apple ensures a level of security by allowing users to authenticate payments either by Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode.
Revamped Privacy and Security Settings, and Improved Bluetooth Privacy
Apple has redesigned the privacy and security settings menu to make it easier for users to manage the information they share with applications. Additionally, iPhone users will now have the ability to choose specific contacts to share with an app, rather than their entire contact list.
Also within iOS 18 is enhanced Bluetooth privacy capabilities, allowing users to connect their devices while protecting information about nearby Bluetooth devices.
Apple Intelligence, Home App Access, RCS Messaging and More
Apple will be releasing the beta version of its Apple Intelligence feature this fall. Apple Intelligence leverages generative AI to summarize text, write messages and generate images.
Since the feature runs using information found on the device, Apple reiterated its commitment to privacy by stating personal information is never stored and is only used when requested on the device.
Apple is also introducing Rich Communication Services (RCS) with iOS 18, which will improve text messages sent between iPhones and Androids. It is also including guest access controls to allow users to manage who can enter certain parts of the home protected by smart devices.
If you have any questions about these features, please contact the BlackCloak Concierge team.
