Apple Air Pods & Air Pods Pro
Review date: 11/02/2020
Things that go in your ears that are always on, always connected, and always listening — seems like there's the possibility something could go wrong. Fortunately, Apple has a pretty good record when it comes to privacy and security though so you should be safe. Now you just have to figure out a way not to lose these pricey little pods.
What could happen if something goes wrong
Apple does a good job with privacy and security as a company. They don't share or sell your data and Apple takes special care to make sure your Siri requests aren't associated with you. Apple did face backlash in 2019 when it came to light that their contractors were regularly listening in on confidential personal conversations when they were reviewing the voice assistant's recordings. Apple changed their policy so users weren't automatically opted-in to human voice review. Good work Apple!
Privacy
Can it snoop on me?
Camera
Device: No
App: N/A
Microphone
Device: Yes
App: N/A
Tracks Location
Device: No
App: N/A
What is required to sign up?
N/A
Phone
N/A
Third party account
N/A
What data does it collect?
Personal
Name, email, phone number, address
Biometric
Voice recordings, if you opt-in
Social
How does it use this data?
How can you control your data?
What is the company’s known track record for protecting users’ data?
They actually changed their Siri voice recording review practices—from an opt out to an opt-in—when people told them they were unhappy having contractors listen to the recordings. Good for them!
Can this product be used offline?
User friendly privacy information?
Links to privacy information
Security
Does this product meet our Minimum Security Standards?
Encryption
Uses encryption in transit and at rest. After Apple recognizes the words “Hey Siri,” what you say is encrypted and associated with a random identifier without being tied to your Apple ID. Audio samples are only retained if you have opted-in.
Strong password
The device pairs securely via Bluetooth, which does not require a password.
Security updates
Manages vulnerabilities
Apple has a bug bounty program, which means that anyone who finds a security issue and discloses it responsibly may get paid. https://developer.apple.com/security-bounty/
Privacy policy
Apple has a webpage highlighting its privacy principles and features. Apple begins its privacy policy with a statement of principles. While this statement is very long, it is clearly broken out into relevant topics.
Artificial Intelligence
Does the product use AI?
Does the AI use your personal data to make decisions about you?
Does the company allow users to see how the AI works?
Apple employs machine learning in many different ways, from using it to to improve Siri to using it to sharpen the photos that you take. Apple states in its privacy policy, "Apple does not take any decisions involving the use of algorithms or profiling that significantly affect you." Some of its research can be found at https://machinelearning.apple.com/.
