Apple has begun introducing a new privacy warning that alerts users whenever certain artificial intelligence (AI) features need to send data to Google Cloud for processing, marking a significant shift in how some Apple Intelligence tools operate.
The new pop-up, first spotted in iOS 27 beta and now appearing in some AI-powered features on iOS 26, asks users for permission before their request is processed using Google's cloud infrastructure.
The change was first reported by technology publication 9to5Mac after discovering the new prompt in Apple's latest software. Apple has also documented the change in its technical information on Apple Intelligence.
Why is Apple showing the new warning?
When Apple Intelligence debuted in 2024, Apple emphasised that many AI requests would either run directly on users' devices or through its own privacy-focused Private Cloud Compute servers.
Now, the company says some of its latest AI models, developed in collaboration with Google, use Google Cloud infrastructure while maintaining the same security architecture that underpins Private Cloud Compute.
Rather than silently sending requests through Google's servers, Apple is choosing to notify users whenever one of these AI features requires cloud processing.
The pop-up explains that data will be sent securely to Google Cloud to complete the request before asking users whether they wish to continue.
Which features are affected?
The permission prompt currently appears in selected AI-powered tools, including shape generation features in Apple's iWork apps on iOS 26 and similar creative AI capabilities in Freeform on iOS 27.
Technology analysts expect additional Apple Intelligence features launching later this year to use the same permission system whenever cloud processing through Google is required.
Not every Apple Intelligence feature uses Google Cloud; many continue to run entirely on-device or through Apple's own Private Cloud Compute infrastructure.
What data does Google receive?
Apple says only the information necessary to complete the AI request is transmitted.
According to the company, requests processed through Google Cloud continue to use the privacy protections built into Private Cloud Compute, including encrypted communications, isolated processing environments and temporary handling of requests.
Apple maintains that personal information is not stored on the cloud servers after the request is completed and is not used to build user profiles.
Apple Intelligence is being released globally through supported software updates.
How can Kenyan users access it?
To use the new AI features, users will need:
• A compatible device that supports Apple Intelligence, such as newer iPhones with supported hardware.
• The latest version of iOS (currently iOS 26, with additional features arriving in iOS 27).
• Apple Intelligence is enabled in settings.
• A supported language for Apple Intelligence.
When using an AI feature that requires Google Cloud processing, the new permission pop-up will appear automatically. Users can then choose whether to allow the request to proceed.
Those using AI features that run entirely on-device will not see the notification.
Comments
Sign in with Google to comment, reply, and like comments.
Continue with Google