WWDC 2021

Apple unveiled several new features at its annual developer conference, WWDC 2021, that ensure the privacy of user data. The event was streamed on the company's website.

For example, the Mail Privacy Protection feature for email prohibits tracking tools from finding out your location or IP address. It also hides information about whether and when you opened the email.

There's also an App Privacy Report, in which the company explains how apps use user data. For example, how often the app requests access to your contacts, microphone or location.

Siri is now able to work without an internet connection: all processing of requests takes place on the device, without the use of network access, which has allowed the voice assistant to speed up some tasks: for example, to set an alarm or record an appointment in the calendar. It is also necessary, as Apple explains, to increase the security of user data: "Audio never leaves your device".

The company has introduced an iCloud+ subscription with additional privacy features. For example, Hide my mail creates random check-in boxes for different services, and Private Relay provides extra protection for web browsing. The cost of the subscription remains unchanged; iCloud subscription holders will be automatically upgraded to iCloud+ this autumn.

Also, it's now possible to designate, for example, your relative as a "trusted contact". In case you forget your Apple ID password, you can call him or her and get a verification code. The company has also allowed the account to be bequeathed: when you die, a designated person can access it and all data on iCloud.