Apple’s new iPhone and iPad security feature limits cell networks from collecting precise location data

Apple introduced an optional feature for select iPhone and iPad models that reduces the precision of location data shared with cellular carriers—providing neighborhood-level rather than exact location—aimed at enhancing user privacy without affecting app or emergency services accuracy. The rollout is limited to certain devices, iOS versions, and carriers across a few countries. The move comes amid increasing law enforcement requests for carrier location data, reports of China-linked intrusions targeting U.S. telecoms, and long-standing cellular network vulnerabilities enabling global location tracking.