Apple emphasizes that the advertising platform does not track users and does not track them on apps and websites. In addition, the Cupertino tech giant states that the Apple advertising platform does not share personally identifiable user information with third parties. However, the company uses “Content Information” (more on this) to serve personalized ads on your iOS device. So, if you no longer want Apple to collect your personal information for targeted ads, let me show you how to block ad tracking on iPhone and iPad.
How to Block Ad Tracking on iPhone and iPad (2021)
Before we get into the ad-tracking blocking settings, let’s understand how it works, and more importantly, what personal information Apple collects to serve personalized ads to iPhone and iPad users.
Where Do Ads Appear by Apple’s Advertising Platform?
Ads served by Apple’s advertising platform appear on your iOS device in three main places. This includes,
- App store: Ads appear based on your search queries.
- Apple News: Ads appear depending on the type of stories you enjoy reading.
- Apple Stocks: Ads are shown based on the type of stories you prefer to read.
So, if you are seeing personalized ads in these apps, you should know that Apple ad tracking is enabled on your iOS device.
What Information Does Apple’s Advertising Platform Collect?
Apple’s advertising platform Can use Contextual Information to serve ads. If you’re wondering how the company has access to all the information, let me tell you it includes your device information, device location, and search queries.
- Device info: OS version, network provider and connection type, your keyboard language settings, and device type.
- Device Location: If you’ve allowed the App Store or Apple News to access your location, the Apple advertising platform can use your location to serve geographically relevant ads.
note: Apple claims that your exact location is not stored. It also mentions that profiles are not created from device location information.
- Searches in the App Store: The Apple advertising platform uses search-based queries to serve ads.
- Apple News and Stocks: The Apple advertising platform tracks the type of story you’re reading and serves ads accordingly.
What are segments and how does Apple use them to serve targeted ads?
Apple says its advertising platform creates groups of people who share similar characteristics. It uses information about you to determine your specific segment and serves targeted ads accordingly.
To be more precise, Apple uses information such as your account information (such as your name, address, age, gender, and devices registered with your Apple ID account information), downloads, purchases, and subscriptions (such as movies, TV shows, music). , books and apps you download), Apple News and Stocks (such as the topics and categories of the news you read and the publications you follow).
To protect user privacy, Apple only serves targeted ads if more than 5000 people meet the targeting criteria.
Block Apple Ad Tracking on iOS/ iPadOS Devices
- start Settings app on your iPhone or iPad.
2. Now, tap on Screen TIME.
3. Next, tap on it. Content and Privacy Restrictions.
4. Your key Content and Privacy Restrictions effective.
5. Next, tap on . ‘Apple Ad’ under Privacy Episode.
6. Now, you may need to enter your screen time password. Finally, choose ‘Do not allow’ to block apple ads.
Block Personalized Ads on iPhone and iPad
Apple also allows you to disable targeted ads on your iOS/iPadOS device. Note that turning off personalized ads will only limit Apple’s ability to serve you relevant ads. Also, disabling personalized ads will not reduce the number of ads you receive.
- Hungry Settings app on your iPhone or iPad.
2. Now, tap on Privacy.
3. Scroll down to the bottom and tap on it. apple ad.
4. Then turn off the switch next to it. Personalized Ads.
Easily Stop Apple Ads on Your iPhone or iPad
That is all! Now that you know how Apple’s advertising platform works, what information it collects, and how to disable ad tracking on iOS, you must do what it takes to protect your personal information. While Apple is quite reliable in providing the necessary security and privacy to your data, you should go with your own instincts.
By the way, what would you like to say about Apple ads and the types of controls it offers you? Share your views with us in the comments section below.
