The New Apple iOS 18 Feature Divides the Internet
Apple’s latest iOS 18 update has sparked significant controversy, thanks to one particular new feature. With the annual announcement of a new iOS, users eagerly anticipate the array of new functionalities that accompany it. This year’s update includes Apple Intelligence, an AI-powered system designed to operate across all Apple platforms and devices. This system promises to solve problems, respond to user prompts, and generate new text and images, marking the next evolution of Siri.
However, it’s another addition that has truly set tongues wagging—and not entirely in a positive way. During the Worldwide Developers Conference on June 10, Apple introduced a feature allowing users to lock and hide apps by moving them to a hidden folder. Apple explained that this feature provides users with added peace of mind by ensuring that private information within apps, such as notifications and content, remains unseen by others. This functionality is particularly useful for safeguarding sensitive information like banking details, ensuring that personal data is protected.
Enhanced Privacy Controls
Apple stated, “Locked and hidden apps offer users peace of mind that information they want to keep private, such as app notifications and content, will not inadvertently be seen by others.” The feature allows users to lock an app, and for additional privacy, hide it in a locked, hidden apps folder. This means that when an app is locked or hidden, its content, such as messages or emails, is concealed from searches, notifications, and other system areas.
The company emphasized that this feature gives users greater control over who can see their apps, how contacts are shared, and how their iPhone connects to accessories. Parents, for instance, can prevent children from making unauthorized purchases by locking down shopping apps.
Public Reaction and Concerns
Despite the practical benefits, the feature has generated mixed reactions on social media. Some users worry about the potential misuse of such privacy tools. One user commented, “A new privacy feature in iOS is going to help f***bois all the world round, by letting you hide certain apps even when you hand your phone over to someone else to change the music or something. Nice.” Another dubbed it a “cheater’s paradise,” noting, “On the apple update you can hide and lock apps, and they won’t even come up if you search words in the search bar.” A third user humorously added, “iOS 18 update lets you lock a specific app… apple making it way too easy to hide your suspicious activities lmao.”
Looking Ahead
Though Apple did not specify an exact release date, iOS 18 is expected to be available later this year. The introduction of these privacy features highlights the ongoing debate about the balance between enhancing user security and the potential for misuse. As Apple continues to innovate, the reception of these features will likely shape future updates and user expectations.