New iOS 17 feature to warn users about unwanted nudes

Apple kicked off this year’s Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC) on Monday with a keynote presentation announcing its latest hardware and software updates, including iOS 17 and its brand new features that will be released later this year. One of them is the new Sensitive Content Warning feature, which will help users avoid seeing unwanted nude images and videos.

A screenshot shared by the tech giant in a blog post shows that when a user receives a nude image, a pop will appear with the text ‘’This could be sensitive. Are you sure you want to view?’’.

“Naked photos and videos show the private body parts that are usually covered by underwear or bathing suits,” the pop-up continues. “It’s not your fault, but naked photos and videos can be used to hurt you. The person in this might not want it seen -it could have been shared without permission.’’ 

The pop-up will ask the user if they are sure they want to view the photo or not. As can be seen in the screenshot, the iPhone-maker will also offer them ‘’ways to get help’’. However, since iOS 17 will arrive later this year, it remains unknown for now where the link will redirect users to. 

Apple said that it won’t get access to the content since ‘’all image and video processing for Sensitive Content Warning occurs on-device’’ like other communication safety features.

During the first day of WWDC 2023, Apple also announced the winners of this year’s Apple Design Awards, and introduced new privacy features for iOS developers.