Apple to Check Public iCloud Links in 27.3 Updates

Apple will make iCloud photos and files shared through the “Anyone with the Link” option accessible to the company for harmful-content checks beginning with its version 27.3 software updates. The policy applies to iOS, iPadOS, macOS and visionOS, according to Apple’s support information. The updates are in developer beta, and two reports said public releases are expected in December 2026. Apple’s support document, published November 3, describes the change as applying to version 27.3 or later. The policy concerns items shared through public links, which can be opened by anyone who has the URL. Apple says those shares will no longer be end-to-end encrypted, even when the account owner or participants have Advanced Data Protection enabled. The change does not apply to the “People you choose” sharing option, which limits access to invited or approved recipients. Apple also offers “Send a Copy,” which transfers a file rather than creating a shareable link. Apple’s document does not define what it considers harmful content or explain how checks will be conducted. It says the company may move, refuse, modify, remove or delete content it determines is harmful. Apple also reserves the...