Apple iPhone to Block Location Tracking with Apple Modem Only

Key Takeaways

1. The iOS 26.3 update allows data transfer between iPhones and Android smartphones.
2. Users can now forward notifications to non-Apple smartwatches.
3. A new privacy feature, “Limit Precise Location,” reduces location tracking by network operators.
4. Users must manually enable the “Limit Precise Location” feature in settings after updating.
5. This feature is only available with specific network providers and certain Apple devices.

The Apple iPhone is gearing up for an update to iOS 26.3, which is set to roll out within the next few hours. This update brings a host of exciting new features. For instance, users will now be able to transfer data between an iPhone and an Android smartphone. Additionally, there’s finally the capability to forward notifications to smartwatches that are not made by Apple. A support document from Apple has also unveiled a privacy-focused feature that users may find beneficial.

Privacy-Focused Features

This new feature, dubbed “Limit Precise Location” by Apple, aims to stop network operators from using cell towers and signal strength to track the exact location of an iPhone. Apple states that iPhones with this feature turned on will send less information to cell towers. As a result, network operators won’t be able to pinpoint the precise location anymore; they will only have access to the general area where the user is situated. Importantly, Apple assures that this feature does not affect signal strength or the accuracy of location data in navigation apps, as these applications rely on GPS instead of cell towers for accurate tracking.

Limitations of the Feature

That said, there are a few limitations to keep in mind. First, users must manually turn on this feature after they install iOS 26.3 by going to Settings –> Cellular –> Data Options. Secondly, “Limit Precise Location” is only available with specific network providers; in the US, it’s offered exclusively by Boost Mobile. In the UK, this feature is limited to EE and BT users. Lastly, only devices equipped with an Apple C1 or C1X modem can support this feature, which includes the iPhone 16e, iPhone Air, and the iPad Pro that comes with the Apple M5 chip.

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