Apple plans stronger macOS controls for Full Disk Access
The company says some AI developers may not clearly explain the privacy risks of broad access to users’ data. The controls’ timing and design remain unknown.
Apple plans to add controls requiring users to take more explicit action before granting apps Full Disk Access on macOS. The company says the safeguards are intended to help users understand what they are allowing software to access.
Apple warned that some developers may not clearly explain the permission’s privacy implications. Full Disk Access can expose files, mail, messages and browsing history; for communication apps, Apple said, access could also affect the privacy of people users communicate with.
AI agent apps may seek the permission to perform a wider range of tasks. Apple said the risks could grow as these tools become more capable and autonomous, but has not said when the new controls will arrive or how they will work.
Engadget linked Apple’s warning to reports that Meta’s Muse app accessed messages in ways users did not expect. Apple did not name Meta or Muse. Meta said that if the messages had synced, the user must have opted in.
