Apple address privacy concerns with new feature

Apple has addressed recent privacy concerns with a new feature in its latest update to their operating software.

iOS14 users will now see either a green or orange dot in the top right hand corner of their screen if an app is using either the camera (green) or microphone (orange).

Concerns had been raised about ‘spyware’ or ‘stalkerware’ on devices that could theoretically record activity on the camera of a device or sound from the built-in microphone. Devices also give users the ability to deny specific apps access to the camera or microphone.

A spokesperson from Apple said: “Privacy is a fundamental human right and at the core of everything we do. That’s why with iOS 14, we’re giving you more control over the data you share and more transparency into how it’s used. An indicator appears at the top of your screen whenever an app is using your microphone or camera. And in Control Center, you can see if an app has used them recently.”

Earlier this year, Facebook and Instagram blamed bugs in their system after users of the beta version of iOS14 said the green dot was appearing while scrolling through timeline feeds from the platforms. They say the bug has now been updated.

However, the ability to know whether you are potentially being watched or listened to by an app is a feature Apple believes will address concerns from users about privacy and use of their data and location.

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