#苹果放宽加密规则

Apple has continuously strengthened data encryption technology in recent years, not relaxing encryption rules; instead, it has further expanded the coverage of end-to-end encryption (E2EE) through the **“Advanced Data Protection”** feature, giving users more control over their data. The following are the key points:

1. **Expanded Encryption Scope**

By default, iCloud enables end-to-end encryption for 15 types of sensitive data (such as health information, keychain passwords). After enabling “Advanced Data Protection,” the number of encrypted categories expands to 25, including new additions like iCloud backups, photos, notes, and Safari bookmarks. Only iCloud email, contacts, and calendar maintain standard encryption to ensure compatibility with global email systems. This feature keeps encryption keys entirely on the user’s device, preventing Apple from accessing data, ensuring safety even if the cloud is breached.

2. **User Control and Responsibility**

Enabling this feature requires users to actively set it up and mandates the configuration of **recovery contacts** or **recovery keys** to prevent data loss if the account is compromised. This reflects Apple’s shift of data recovery responsibility to users while enhancing security, balancing convenience and privacy.

3. **Technical Compatibility Requirements**

Users must upgrade to iOS 16.2 or later and ensure all devices are updated in sync; otherwise, functionality may be impacted. This move encourages users to keep their systems up-to-date, indirectly enhancing the overall security ecosystem.

4. **Industry Impact and Trends**

Apple’s actions respond to the increasing risks of cloud data breaches (with over 1.1 billion records leaked globally in 2021), promoting the adoption of end-to-end encryption as a core means of defending against advanced threats within the industry. Its hybrid encryption model (device-side keys + cloud metadata encryption) guarantees privacy while maintaining certain service functionalities (such as optimized storage deduplication).

In conclusion, Apple is tightening encryption rules further through “Advanced Data Protection” rather than relaxing them. Users can choose a higher level of security but must take on the responsibility of key management. This strategy reinforces the brand positioning of “privacy as a human right” while promoting the upgrade of industry security standards.