Apple Strengthens User Privacy with Enhanced Contact Sharing Controls in iOS 18

In a significant move to bolster user privacy, Apple has unveiled a new two-step permission process for iOS apps seeking access to users’ contact lists. This change aims to curb the practice of social apps building their networks on the back of users’ address books, often without their explicit consent.

At the Apple Worldwide Developers Conference, the company introduced the enhanced permission screens, which will first ask users to allow or deny access to their contacts. If they allow access, they will then be presented with a second screen to choose which contacts to share, if not all. This added layer of control empowers users to make informed decisions about their data sharing.

Previously, some apps required full address book access to function, a practice that raised concerns about data privacy and potential misuse. While this approach may have driven initial user adoption, it often failed to provide sustainable growth. Users were forced to share their entire contact list to try out new social experiences, compromising their privacy.

The updated permission system addresses these concerns, giving users more control over their contacts. Apps will no longer receive unfettered access to users’ contacts, and users can choose which contacts to share, if any. This change may impact apps that relied on contact list access to drive growth, but it prioritizes user consent and privacy.

Notably, app developers don’t need to make any changes for this feature to work. The new permission screens will appear automatically when an app requests contact access.

Industry insiders have taken notice of this change, with some joking about its potential impact on certain growth strategies. Nikita Bier, a developer who sold several social apps, quipped, “It’s the end of the world,” in response to Apple’s announcement.

Apple’s move demonstrates its commitment to user privacy and may inspire other platforms to follow suit. By giving users more control over their data, Apple aims to create a safer and more transparent app ecosystem.