Apple announced the new Digital Legacy feature on iOS 15 which will allow account holders’ family or friends to access their data after their death. But the feature was not released with the iOS 15 public update. Now, Macworld has found two signs which indicate that the company is ready to launch the feature soon.
Smartphones users don’t only use the gadget to make calls, they are used to take pictures, send and receive emails, schedule appointments, keep personal diaries, and so much more. However, passcode restriction to unlock an iPhone can render that data null and void at the time of the user’s demise.
As a remedy, the new Digital Legacy program will give access to an account holder’s designated people to their account and personal information like photos, Notes, Contacts, and more in the event of their death. However, information like saved credit cards and passwords will not be shared.
Apple sets up an iCloud usage agreement and a microsite to prepare for the Digital Legacy feature’s launch
Apple has updated the iCloud usage agreement which includes the requirements to access data under the Digital Legacy program.
With Digital Legacy, you can choose to add one or more contacts to access and download certain data in your account after your death.
If your designated contacts provide proof of death to Apple and have the required key, they will automatically obtain access to that certain account data and activation lock will be removed from all your devices. Thus, it is your responsibility to keep your Digital Legacy contacts up to date.
The company has also launched the Digital Legacy recovery site digital-legacy.apple.com but the feature can not be enabled at the moment.
Request access to a deceased friend or family member’s account. If you are the legacy contact for a deceased person, you can request access to their account and have the activation lock removed from their devices.
