Apple has updated its App Review Guidelines to make one thing very clear, apps must get permission before they share personal data with third-party AI. This is a small change in wording, but it could have big effects for app makers, users, and the future of privacy on phones.
In this post I will explain what changed, why Apple did it, what it means for developers, and what users should watch for. I will use simple words so anyone can follow along.
What Apple changed
Apple added one line to its data sharing rules. The new rule says apps must clearly tell users where their personal data will be shared, including when the data goes to third-party AI, and the app must get explicit permission first.
Before this update, Apple already required apps to ask for consent before sharing personal data. Now Apple calls out AI by name. That means when an app sends user data to any outside AI service, the app must explain that clearly and get permission.
Why Apple did this now
There are two fast reasons.
First, AI is spreading into many apps. Apps use AI tools to do things like write messages, summarize text, or make photo edits. Many of these tools live outside the app, run in the cloud, and need real user data to work. Apple wants users to know when that happens.
Second, Apple is working on a big upgrade to Siri that will use external AI technology. Apple plans to let Siri act inside other apps. That makes data sharing a bigger privacy issue. By tightening rules now, Apple sets a clear standard before many new AI features arrive.
What counts as “third-party AI”
Apple did not give a super strict definition of AI in this update. The word can mean different things. It can mean big chat models, image generators, or simple machine learning tools that run in the background.
Because the term is broad, app makers should be careful. If an app uses any outside AI service that accesses personal data, it is safer to treat that as third-party AI and follow Apple’s rule.
How this affects developers
If you build apps, this is important to know.
- Clear disclosure: Update your privacy notes to say when data is sent to third-party AI. Use plain language, tell users what data is shared, and why it is shared.
- Get explicit permission: Do not hide AI data flows in a long terms page. Ask users directly with a clear prompt, and record that consent.
- Audit your AI partners: Know who you send data to. Make sure third parties follow privacy rules and let you meet Apple’s standards.
- Limit data sharing: Share the minimum data needed for the AI task. If possible, send anonymized or less sensitive data.
- Test carefully: Apple can remove apps that do not comply. Make sure your app review notes explain any AI use and how you get consent.
For many developers, these steps mean extra work. But they also protect users and reduce legal risk.
What this means for users
For everyday users, this change adds a layer of protection.
- More transparency: Apps should now tell you when your data is used by outside AI. That means fewer surprises.
- More control: You have the right to say no. If you do not want your data shared with third-party AI, you should be able to refuse.
- Safer apps: With clearer rules, apps that misbehave are easier to spot and remove.
Users should read permission prompts and privacy pages. If an app asks to share data with AI, think about whether you trust that app and the AI provider.
The bigger picture for privacy and AI
This update shows how tech leaders are trying to balance AI innovation with user privacy. AI brings new power to apps, but it also brings new risks. Personal data used without clear consent can lead to harm, from unwanted ads to deeper privacy breaches.
Apple’s approach is one of many. Regulators in Europe and the US are also looking at AI and data rules. Developers who design with privacy in mind will be ahead of the curve.
Quick tips for app users
- Read permission requests before tapping allow.
- If an app mentions third-party AI, check its privacy policy.
- Limit the amount of personal data you share with apps when possible.
- Use app settings to turn off data sharing if you do not want it.
The Bottom Line
Apple’s new rule may seem small, but it points to something larger. As AI becomes part of more apps, rules and good habits will matter. Apple is asking developers to be clear and to get permission. That is a win for users who want more control over their data.
If you build apps, update your privacy flows now. If you use apps, pay attention to permission screens. The future will have more AI inside apps, and we all deserve to know how our data is used.
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