- Bluetooth accessories can’t scan your network
- Apps must individually request permission to access Bluetooth accessories
- You control which contacts (if any) you share with apps
iOS 18 introduced enhanced privacy features to give users more control over their data, particularly in how their devices interact with Bluetooth accessories and share contact information with apps.
Bluetooth connections
Apple is pretty tight on Bluetooth security in an effort to prevent accessory makers grabbing more information than they really need. The new system (introduced in late 2024) stops accessories being able to scan your network to see which other wireless gadgets are nearby. Bad news for data miners, good news for consumers.
Instead, you’ll pair directly with a specific accessory without allowing it access to wider networking functions. This helps ensure that your Bluetooth connections are secure and that only trusted devices can connect to your iPhone.
Apps also have to individually request permission to access your Bluetooth accessories, with a prompt like the one above. If you ever want to check these permissions, or remove them, head to Settings > Privacy & Security > Accessories.
Another benefit of this system is that third-party brands can make their Bluetooth gadgets compatible with the same seamless pairing process used when connecting Apple kit like AirPods: simply bring the devices close to one another, and you’ll see a slick prompt to help you pair. It makes for a safer and more pleasant experience all around.
Secure your contacts
Apple is also making moves to try to limit any potential data harvesting from app developers. These security features mean that any time an app requests access to your contacts, you’ll get more control over how much is shared. Again, this is a big plus for user privacy.
That means you can choose to only share specific contacts, rather than your entire address book. Prior to iOS 18, you could only respond with a blanket yes or no to these contact permission requests.
Exercising this power is easy. When an app needs to add contacts, it will present a permissions pop-up. You’ll simply need to choose between Select Contacts to fine-tune what’s shared, or Allow Full Access if you deem the app legitimates needs to see everything.