Apple has removed its Advanced Data Protection (ADP) feature, which provides end-to-end encryption for iCloud data, for new users in the United Kingdom.
This decision follows a secret order from the UK government demanding Apple create a backdoor to access encrypted user data.
Apple expressed disappointment with the situation, emphasizing the importance of end-to-end encryption in protecting user privacy, particularly in the face of increasing data breaches.
While existing ADP users in the UK will initially retain the feature, they will eventually be required to disable it to continue using their iCloud accounts.
Apple maintains its commitment to user privacy and hopes to offer enhanced security features in the UK in the future. iMessage, FaceTime, Health data, and iCloud Keychain remain end-to-end encrypted in the UK.