Apple pumps the breaks on child protection controls


Apple issued a statement that it now plans to delay the implementation of controls intended to protect children from sexual abuse.

The Verge:

â€"Last month we announced plans for features intended to help protect children from predators who use communication tools to recruit and exploit them, and limit the spread of Child Sexual Abuse Material,” Apple said in a statement to The Verge. â€"Based on feedback from customers, advocacy groups, researchers and others, we have decided to take additional time over the coming months to collect input and make improvements before releasing these critically important child safety features.”

The capabilities were expected to launch later this year. We'll have to see what Apple ultimately decides, but it's encouraging Apple is slowing down. It was concerning that Apple's initial response to criticism appeared to focus on clarification of plans framing criticisms as simply misunderstanding. Hopefully, Apple will take more time to address specific concerns over both what is happening and how the technology could be used in the future.