Apple has recently implemented a significant change in how users share contacts with third-party apps in iOS 18. While privacy advocates see this as a positive development for user privacy, some developers are concerned about the impact on app success, especially for social-based apps. Here’s a closer look at what has changed.
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Previously, Apple’s contact sync feature aimed to ensure that your contact information remains updated across all your Apple devices. To sync your contacts with your Apple devices, simply go to:
- Settings > [your name] > iCloud
- Tap See All next to Saved to iCloud
- Turn on Contacts
With the release of iOS 18, sharing contacts with third-party apps has become more selective. Instead of a blanket approval to share contacts when logging into an app for the first time, users are now prompted to choose which contacts they wish to share.
While granting apps access to contacts can offer benefits such as connecting with existing contacts on the app or receiving recommendations for new connections, there are also privacy considerations to take into account. For instance, certain apps like dating services provide options to exclude contacts from being visible.
The impact of this change on third-party apps remains to be seen. Some users may appreciate the added control over contact sharing, while others may see it as a potential obstacle for app growth, especially for newer apps in the market.
Interestingly, this change does not apply to Apple’s own apps, maintaining a distinction in how contacts are managed. While some developers may view this change as a challenge, users who prioritize privacy and security may welcome the ability to selectively share contacts with apps. It’s a balance between user control and app development considerations.
