Apple Unveils iPhone and iPad Feature to Protect User Location Data from Cell Networks

Los Angeles: Apple has launched a new security feature for some iPhones and iPads. This feature makes it harder for law enforcement, spies, and hackers to find out where someone really is. When turned on, it shares less precise location data with cell carriers. Instead of sharing an exact street address, it gives a general area like a neighborhood. This helps keep users’ information private.

Apple says this new feature does not change how precise location data is shared with apps or during emergency calls. It is available on specific models like the iPhone Air, iPhone 16e, and iPad Pro (M5) Wi-Fi + Cellular, running iOS 26.3. It works with a few carriers around the world, including companies in Germany, Thailand, the UK, and the United States.

The introduction of this feature comes amid growing concerns about how law enforcement is using cell carrier data. There have been cases where hackers also try to steal sensitive information from these networks. In the past year, some U.S. carriers faced hacking by groups linked to China, which targeted call logs and messages.

Experts highlight that cell networks have long been vulnerable, allowing outside people to access location data globally. Gary Miller, a mobile security expert, explained that most users don’t know their devices can send location data besides what apps do. Until now, limiting this data with cell networks was difficult. Miller sees Apple’s feature as a good start in giving users more control over their privacy.