iOS 26 Blocks Google Tracking, Boosts iPhone Privacy

Apple will enhance iPhone privacy in its next major update. The iOS 26 update changes a key Safari browser setting. This change will happen when the software releases in September.

It directly counters recent moves by Google. Google recently resumed collecting user data for advertising. This data is known as a digital fingerprint.

How Advanced Tracking Protection Works

Apple’s feature fights fingerprinting. It hides specific details about your device and browser. Trackers get a simplified system profile instead.

This makes many devices look identical to advertisers. It becomes much harder to single out your iPhone. The setting was previously only active in Private Browsing mode.

iOS 26 will enable this protection for all browsing. Users will get stronger privacy by default. They will not need to change any settings themselves.

The Impact on Users and Advertisers

The move strengthens Apple’s stance on user privacy. It limits the data available to companies like Google. Advertisers may find targeted ads more difficult to create.

Some websites might not load correctly initially. The feature can disrupt how pages capture data. Most users will likely prefer privacy over minor browsing quirks.

This change only affects the Safari web browser. Other browsers on iPhone will not have this default protection. Users must manage privacy separately in those apps.

This shift represents a significant step in the ongoing battle for digital privacy. The new iOS 26 privacy features give users a powerful default shield against covert tracking.

Thought you’d like to know

What is digital fingerprinting?

It is a method used to track users online. Advertisers collect device and browser data. This data creates a unique profile for targeted ads.

When will iOS 26 be released?

The update is expected in September 2025. Apple typically releases new iOS versions annually. A public beta will likely arrive this summer.

Does this stop all tracking?

No, it significantly reduces tracking in Safari. It does not block all data collection. Other browsers may still allow fingerprinting.

Will this affect my web browsing?

You might see less personalized ads. Some websites could have minor loading issues. The trade-off is greatly enhanced privacy protection.

Trusted Sources

Apple, Reuters