iOS 16.6 Beta enhances privacy with iMessage contact key verification

Delhi : In the second half of 2022, Apple unveiled the eagerly awaited iMessage Contact Key Verification function, which aims to protect conversations from online dangers. Originally scheduled for release in 2023, the functionality is currently present in iOS 16.6's first beta. However, it is currently defunct.

Apple published the beta of iOS 16.6 on Friday, highlighting the inclusion of iMessage Contact Key Verification. However, turning on the function right now doesn't seem to do anything, which raises the possibility that Apple is still working on its implementation.

iMessage Contact Key Verification: What is it?

iMessage Contact Key Verification is a security solution for people who are especially susceptible to hostile actors' intrusions. This includes journalists, human rights advocates, public servants, and other anyone who could be the target of such assaults.

The function enables users to verify that they are speaking with the intended receiver and not an unauthorised third party who could have eavesdropped or intercepted the communication. If a breach in the cloud servers threatens the integrity of a communication between two or more users who have this feature enabled, Apple will send an alert.

By turning on this feature, users may compare a Contact Verification Code in-person, through FaceTime, or through another secure application to confirm both their own identification and the identity of the person they are interacting with. In an effort to strengthen the security of customers' sensitive data within iCloud and iMessage, Apple unveiled this functionality with Security Keys for Apple ID in December of last year.

Apple demonstrated its dedication to protecting consumers' sensitive data within iCloud and iMessage by introducing iMessage Contact Key Verification and security keys for Apple ID in December of the previous year, offering a higher degree of safety.