Developers are quietly working on iOS 14 and
its Mac and Watch counterparts, and many are
wondering what the next-generation operating
system will look like. A Bloomberg report has
shed some light, and Apple looks set to loosen
its grip on its privacy-focused ecosystem.
APPLE MEANS PRIVACY
Ever since the introduction of iOS back in 2007
(formally iPhoneOS with the launch of the
original iPhone), Apple’s stance on privacy has
been clear. Though third parties are actively
encouraged to build apps and experiences for
Apple’s ecosystems, they must play carefully
by the Cupertino company’s rules or be
kicked out. Each piece of software designed for
macOS, iOS, and watchOS is compartmentalized,
existing in a bubble to ensure data isn’t
transferred between apps to resell to advertising
and e-commerce giants, something that sets
Apple apart from its Android-powered rivals.
Apple’s privacy focus has not been without
its controversy, though. Who can forget the
FBI drama, in which US officials asked Apple
to create a “back door” to iOS and iCloud
for investigations? The company dragged
its heels and decided against offering the
government body access to its billions of users’
personal data. The FBI has since managed
to crack the iPhone 11, demonstrating that
Tim Cook and Co have a long way to go if they
want to build a truly impenetrable device, but
by setting itself up as the paragon of privacy,
Apple’s managed to win over the support of
the anti-Google, anti-Samsung brigade, and
ultimately shift millions more iPhones, iPads,
Apple Watches, Macs, and subscriptions.