Apple has recently released an important security upgrade with iOS 16.2, which brings the long-awaited feature of full encryption for iMessage in iCloud, iPhone backups, and eight other apps/categories. As part of the process, you will need to set up a recovery contact/key. Here’s how to activate end-to-end encryption on your iPhone for iMessage, iCloud, device backups, Notes, Safari, Photos, etc.
End-to-end encryption (E2E) was already present for Apple messages, iCloud keychain, health data, etc., but the update brings E2E to your message backup (Messages in iCloud), your iCloud iPhone backup, iCloud Drive, Notes, Photos, Reminders, Safari bookmarks, Siri shortcuts, voice memos, and Wallet passes.
While E2E encryption is already present for Apple messages, iCloud keychain, health data, etc., this update brings E2E to your message backup (Messages in iCloud), your iCloud iPhone backup, iCloud Drive, Notes, Photos, Reminders, Safari bookmarks, Siri shortcuts, voice memos, and Wallet passes.
It should be noted that the feature is currently only available in the United States for the moment “and will begin rolling out in the rest of the world in early 2023”.
To activate end-to-end encryption for iMessage, iCloud, and iPhone backups in iOS 16.2, you need to:
- Make sure you are running iOS 16.2 and that your Mac, iPad, HomePods, etc. are also updated to the latest version.
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Tap on your name at the top.
- Select iCloud.
- Scroll down and tap on Advanced Data Protection.
- Tap on Enable Advanced Data Protection.
- If you haven’t set up a recovery contact or recovery key, you will be prompted to do so first.
- If you have just finished setting up a recovery contact/key, go back to Settings > iCloud > Advanced Data Protection and tap on Enable Advanced Data Protection.
- Follow the prompts.
- You may be asked to update other devices connected to your iCloud account before you can enable end-to-end encryption. Alternatively, you can remove devices that are on an older software version to proceed with the process.
- For security reasons, Apple may make you wait to activate the feature if you have recently purchased a new device – this delay will appear on your screen during setup.
The new iOS 16.2 brings end-to-end encryption for iMessage, iCloud, device backups, Notes, Safari, Photos, etc. However, it’s currently only available in the United States and will be rolling out to the rest of the world in early 2023. The setup process requires configuring a recovery contact/key and following prompts to complete the process.
Source: Apple Help
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