Apple will start checking public photos and iCloud files

Apple will begin checking photos and files shared through iCloud links for content the company deems harmful. This new rule is included in iOS 27.3, iPadOS 27.3, macOS 27.3, and visionOS 27.3. The public release of these updates is expected in December 2026.

The change applies to iCloud Photos and iCloud Drive materials for which the user selects the "Anyone with the Link" setting. Such a link allows access to the content without a personal invitation. In contrast, the "People You Choose" option restricts access to invited participants. Apple has not announced any checks for materials shared only with selected people.

The company clarified that files and photos accessible to anyone with the link are no longer protected by end-to-end encryption. This condition applies even with Advanced Data Protection enabled, which provides end-to-end encryption for several categories of information in iCloud. When shared via a link, the content becomes accessible, including to Apple itself. The announcement of checks does not mean the company will have access to all content in personal cloud storage.

Measures for Violations

Apple's support document states that materials deemed harmful may be rejected upon upload, moved, modified, or deleted. The company also reserves the right to restrict or block an Apple Account, prohibit the creation of a new account with the same email address or phone number, and contact law enforcement if necessary.

However, Apple has not yet explained what will be considered "harmful content." The methods of checking are also undisclosed: it is unknown whether materials will be analyzed by automated systems, employees, or both. It is also unclear whether the new rules will affect links created before the release of version 27.3.

Thus, the confirmed change concerns the moderation of content shared through publicly accessible links. The conditions for personal file sharing and other data storage methods remain unchanged by this announcement. The company has not yet presented details of the verification criteria and the procedure for applying restrictions.