Apple is starting to test the new tracking notifications, which give users the right to request companies like Facebook stop following them around the internet.
The new iOS and iPadOS 14 privacy feature will mean companies now have to ask users’ permission before they can track their activity across other websites, rather than just brazenly doing it.
The notification will explain to users why their data is being requested and will give them the option to “Allow” or “Ask App not to Track” and mitigate some of the more intrusive tracking practices.
MacRumours readers have spied the prompts in the first beta of the iOS 14.4 operation. One user shared a screenshot from the NBA app which explains it is seeking tracking permission “to provide you a better and personalised ad experience.”
Related: Best iPhone 2020
The tests means we should see the feature arrive in iOS 14.4, which will probably roll out early in the new year. Overall it appears to be a great boost for privacy-conscious iPhone and iPad owners who will now have the power control whether they want to see personalised advertisements.
Companies like Facebook have strongly criticised the plan, which will potentially affect its ability to target social media users with advertisements based upon their other interests.
Facebook has (somewhat laughably) attempted to seize the moral high ground by claiming Apple’s policy will damage small businesses who rely on this tracking to secure advertising. The company also does some mental gymnastics to claim the decision is actually because Apple wants those companies to turn to subscription based models, which means Cupertino will make more money from in-app purchase cuts.
Here’s what Apple CEO Tim Cook has to say on the matter. Zing!
We believe users should have the choice over the data that is being collected about them and how it’s used. Facebook can continue to track users across apps and websites as before, App Tracking Transparency in iOS 14 will just require that they ask for your permission first. pic.twitter.com/UnnAONZ61I
— Tim Cook (@tim_cook) December 17, 2020
Do you side with Apple or Facebook on this matter? Share your thoughts with us @trustedreviews on Twitter.
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
