Checklist 392: Safety and Security in Apple’s Fall OS Updates
Apple Expands Health & Safety Features with Satellite Services and Hearing Aid Capabilities
Apple continues to push the boundaries of health, safety, and security with new features coming to its devices. Recent announcements highlight satellite messaging, emergency services, and innovations in health, including a new sleep apnea detection feature and AirPods Pro’s ability to function as hearing aids.
Satellite Services Expanding
Apple’s satellite messaging is expanding to more countries. A recent report from MacRumors revealed that iOS 18 will introduce Messages via Satellite for the US and Canada, enabling users to send and receive encrypted texts, emojis, and Tapbacks via iMessage and SMS when outside of cellular and Wi-Fi range. While this service will be free for the first two years, SMS charges may apply depending on the user’s carrier.
Meanwhile, the UK will receive Roadside Assistance via Satellite, through a partnership with Green Flag. This pay-per-use service will provide emergency roadside support, especially in areas with poor cellular coverage. It’s designed to work best in open areas, though obstacles such as buildings or tree cover could affect its performance.
In a more safety-focused feature, Emergency SOS Live Video will launch in iOS 18, allowing users to share live video feeds with emergency dispatchers, providing crucial real-time visuals for responders.
Health Innovations
At Apple’s recent iPhone event, the company unveiled new health features, starting with sleep apnea detection for Apple Watch. This feature will be part of the upcoming watchOS 11 and available on Apple Watch 9, 10, and the second Apple Watch Ultra. Using advanced algorithms, the Apple Watch will notify users if signs of sleep apnea are detected and provide a PDF report to share with healthcare providers. Sleep apnea, a condition affecting over 1 billion people worldwide, can lead to serious health issues if left untreated.
Apple also announced that AirPods Pro 2 will soon function as over-the-counter hearing aids. Leveraging years of research in hearing health, these wireless earbuds will offer a Hearing Test feature, allowing users to check their hearing at home. Once the hearing test is completed, AirPods Pro can transform into clinical-grade hearing aids for users with mild to moderate hearing loss. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has already given its approval for this feature, and it will roll out in over 100 countries by fall.
Apple’s New Operating Systems Bring Major Privacy, Security, and Convenience Updates
As Apple gears up for the release of its latest operating systems—iOS 18, iPadOS 18, macOS 15 Sequoia, tvOS 18, watchOS 11, and visionOS 2—on Monday, September 16, the tech giant is delivering significant privacy and security updates. These features are aimed at improving user control and safety while also enhancing ease of use across its ecosystem. The updates come ahead of the iPhone 16 and Apple Watch Series 10 release on Friday, September 20.
App Locking and Hiding: A Controversial Security Boost
One of the more debated features is the ability to lock and hide apps, offering users privacy in scenarios where they may hand their phone to others. This could help people in various situations, from those concerned about others snooping to those in sensitive relationships. To access a locked or hidden app, Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode is required.
Apple’s Standalone Password Manager
The long-awaited Passwords app is arriving, promising to make managing passwords, passkeys, and two-factor authentication (2FA) codes more intuitive. Users will be able to easily copy or autofill verification codes directly into Safari without needing to open the app, streamlining the 2FA process. Additionally, passwords can be synced securely across iCloud, allowing access from both Apple and Windows devices. As always, data is protected by end-to-end encryption.
Privacy and Security Overhaul
Apple’s upcoming operating systems will also feature Redesigned Privacy & Security settings, making it easier to manage app permissions. Users will be able to see how many apps have access to data like photos and contacts, allowing them to fine-tune their privacy settings. Another key improvement includes Accessory Setup Kit, enabling developers to pair accessories seamlessly without needing to access unnecessary Bluetooth or network data.
Protecting Children Online
In an effort to safeguard younger users, Communication Safety will now require a Screen Time password for children to view or send sensitive content. This update underscores Apple’s continued focus on creating a safer digital environment for minors.
New Guest Access for Smart Homes
The Guest Access feature, housed under Home settings, will allow users to grant time-based access to up to 29 guests for devices like locks, garage doors, and alarm systems. Guest activities will be logged, with a 30-day history viewable for monitoring purposes.
Staying Secure Without Upgrading
For users unable or unwilling to upgrade to iOS 18, Apple is offering the option to remain on iOS 17 while still receiving crucial security patches. This ensures users on older systems aren’t left vulnerable to security threats.
Apple’s comprehensive list of over 250 new features was shared via *MacRumors*, detailing everything from improved Contacts preferences to content blocking for children.
