Last Monday, Tim Cook's boys officially launched the latest version of their operating systems, which in the case of the iPhone corresponds to iOS 18.4. This update finally brought artificial intelligence to Spain by Apple Intelligence, but also brought some adjustments that you should know.
Apple has launched iOS 18.4 with several outstanding functions such as priority notifications, new emojis and improvements in the Sketch tool in Image Playgrounds. However, what many do not know is that this update also includes a New privacy adjustment Within the location services, which could be sending data on your location to Apple without you noticing.
How to stop sharing data with Apple
The option in question is called “Improve location accuracy” and is hidden in adjustments → privacy and safety → Location services → System services, within the “Product Improvement” section. For some users, this option has appeared activated by default After updating iOS 18.4, which has aroused doubts about how Apple is collecting information without prior notice.
As you can see in the image, the option now appears by default, and we recommend that you take a look and reflections on whether you are interested in Apple collects this data. Personally, I prefer to keep it activated since it is something that at the moment does not worry me and the security that Apple gives me in terms of privacy and improvement of its products, makes me doubt.
According to Apple's documentation, this function allows the iPhone to periodically send the georeferenced locations of nearby Wi-Fi access points and mobile phone antennas to Apple. This is done anonymously and encrypted, with the purpose of Improve the database collaborative that Apple uses for its assisted GPS system.
This system helps devices determine their location more quickly and more precisely when combining GPS signals with information from Wi-Fi networks and telephone towers. However, the fact that the option is activated by default in some cases has generated concern among those who value their privacy.
What is not yet clear is whether this functionality already existed integrated within another previous configuration and now has simply been separated into an independent option, or if Apple has been collecting this data in the background without offering a way to deactivate it so far.
For those who care about their privacy, the good news is that it can be deactivated. While this will not prevent the iPhone from benefiting from the location database improved by the community, it will prevent the device from contributing to it by sending data to Apple.
Apple insists that all the information sent is anonymous and encrypted, which in theory guarantees that no one can associate that data to a particular user. However, if you prefer to have total control about what information you share with Apple, it is advisable to review this configuration and decide whether you want to leave it activated or deactivate it for more peace of mind.
