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Apple launches new UK legal complaint over encrypted data access
The dispute centers on the UK government seeking access to data protected by Apple's Advanced Data Protection, an end-to-end encrypted feature even Apple cannot read.
Apple has confirmed it filed a new legal complaint against the UK government in a court that handles objections to the use of covert surveillance powers, according to BBC Business. Apple did not specify what the complaint targets, but the Financial Times previously reported it is another challenge to a Home Office demand for so-called backdoor access to highly encrypted Apple user data.
The ongoing dispute has been unfolding since early 2025, with the UK government seeking the ability to view material protected by an advanced data protection system that even Apple cannot access. The UK government declined to comment on the legal proceedings or so-called operational matters.
Apple says it has never built a backdoor or master key to any of its products or services, and it pointed reporters to a statement from last year after its initial challenge to the request. It also noted that its Advanced Data Protection feature is end-to-end encrypted and is designed to be opt-in for data stored in iCloud, including backups, Drive storage, photos, and voice memos.
In the UK, iPhone users have seen a notice on the Advanced Data Protection settings page since February 2025 indicating the tool cannot be enabled for new users. The Home Office requests were issued under the Investigatory Powers Act, which includes powers for secret technical capability notices that can compel companies to provide ways for UK security services to access customer data.