The decision comes as part of Apple's efforts to limit government surveillance, as outlined in their Government and Law Enforcement guidelines.
The move follows concerns raised by Oregon Senator Ron Wyden, who revealed that officials had been requesting push notification data from both Apple and Google. Google already requires a court order for such requests. Wyden explained that push notifications travel through Apple and Google servers, giving the companies the ability to facilitate government surveillance of users' app usage. By requiring a court order, Apple is taking steps to protect user privacy.
Wyden commended Apple for their decision, stating that they are "doing the right thing by matching Google and requiring a court order to hand over push notification related data." Both Apple and Google have confirmed that they have received requests for this type of data from officials.
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As part of the policy update, Apple has revised its guidelines to include a provision stating that access to push notification data will require "a subpoena or greater legal process." The text has been amended to incorporate references to more stringent warrant requirements.
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According to the updated guidelines, Apple will only provide content in response to a search warrant issued upon a showing of probable cause or customer consent. The company will provide customer content as it exists in the customer's account, but only in response to legally valid processes.
By implementing this new policy, Apple is taking a stand to protect user privacy and ensure that government surveillance is conducted within the bounds of the law.
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