Apple has announced the discontinuation of its Advanced Data Protection (ADP) feature for new users in the United Kingdom, following a government directive requesting backdoor access to encrypted cloud data. The feature, which was introduced in December 2022, provided enhanced security through end-to-end encryption of iCloud data.

The company expressed disappointment over this development, emphasizing the growing importance of robust data protection in an era of increasing cyber threats. While new UK users will no longer have access to ADP, existing users will eventually need to disable the feature to maintain their iCloud accounts, with Apple providing guidance for this transition.

Key Points:
– Apple maintains its stance against creating backdoors or master keys for government access
– iMessage, FaceTime, Health, and iCloud Keychain services will retain end-to-end encryption in the UK
– ADP remains available for customers in other countries worldwide
– The feature ensures data can only be decrypted on users’ trusted devices

This decision marks a significant shift in Apple’s privacy offerings in the UK, though the company remains hopeful about potentially reintroducing enhanced security measures for UK users in the future. The move highlights the ongoing tension between government surveillance requirements and tech companies’ commitment to user privacy.