iOS 26 Privacy Warning: Why You Should Turn Off iPhone Tracking Settings Now
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
Apple's most recent iOS version 26 update expands system-level analytics, app tracking permissions, and ad-personalisation features. While these tools assist Apple in improving services, they also allow third-party apps and advertisers to collect behavioural data, location patterns, and usage insights. Making apps like TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, etc., easier to access your information more accurately.
Here are the key tracking settings to disable
App Tracking Transparency
Many apps request permission to track your activity across other apps and websites.
Go to Settings → Privacy & Security → Tracking
Switch off Allow Apps to Request to Track
Location Services
Some apps request constant location access even when not in use. To switch off location services
Go to Settings → Privacy & Security → Location Services
Set most apps to While Using the App or Never
Disable Share My Location unless needed
Apple Advertising
Apple uses your App Store activity and device usage to personalise ads.
Go to Settings → Privacy & Security → Apple Advertising
Turn off Personalised Ads
Analytics & Improvements
These settings send device diagnostics and usage data to Apple.
Go to Settings → Privacy & Security → Analytics & Improvements
Turn off Share iPhone Analytics, Improve Siri & Dictation, and related toggles
Safari Tracking Protections
Safari includes new link‑tracking and fingerprinting protections in iOS 26.
Go to Settings → Safari → Advanced → Privacy
Enable Link Tracking Protection and Advanced Fingerprinting Protection
What E.Tel Mobile Customers Should Do
E.Tel Mobile customers should review their privacy settings after updating to iOS 26, disable tracking features to reduce unnecessary data collection, and keep all apps updated to ensure they work properly with Apple’s new privacy controls. Users should also stay alert for unusual battery drain or unexpected data usage, as these can be signs of background tracking.
Staying Safe in the iOS 26 Era
iOS 26 is one of Apple’s most advanced updates yet, but its tracking capabilities mean users should take a few minutes to secure their devices for privacy reasons. Turning off unnecessary tracking ensures your iPhone stays fast, private, and protected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does iOS 26 enable more tracking by default?
Apple’s system-level analytics and ad-personalisation features are designed to improve services, but they also allow third-party apps to collect behavioural and location data unless users opt out.
Which apps benefit most from tracking?
Apps like TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and other social platforms use tracking to personalise content and ads. Disabling tracking limits their access to your data.
Will turning off tracking affect app performance?
No. Most apps will continue to function normally. You may see fewer personalised ads or recommendations, but core features remain unaffected.
How do I know if my iPhone is sharing data?
Go to Settings → Privacy & Security and review permissions for each category (Location, Contacts, Photos, etc.). Remove access for apps that don’t need it.
What’s the difference between Apple tracking and third-party tracking?
Apple tracking relates to system analytics and ad personalisation. Third-party tracking involves apps monitoring your activity across other platforms. Both can be disabled in Settings.
Is it safe to use Safari after the update?
Yes. Safari in iOS 26 includes enhanced privacy protections like link tracking and fingerprinting prevention. Make sure these are enabled in Settings → Safari → Advanced → Privacy.