NATO approves the iPhone and iPad for classified use
Summary
Apple's iPhone and iPad have received NATO approval for classified use after rigorous testing by Germany's BSI. This certification marks the first for consumer devices, enhancing Apple's security claims and emphasizing the importance of information security in mobile development.
Key Insights
What is the 'NATO restricted' classification level?
NATO restricted is the lowest level of classified information in NATO systems; information below this level is considered NATO Unclassified, which functions more as a copyright notice than a security classification.
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What specific requirements must iPhone and iPad meet for this NATO certification?
The devices require iOS 26 or iPadOS 26, must be in 'Indigo configuration' meaning connected to a mobile device management (MDM) service for enforcement of security policies like passcodes and remote wipe, but no additional software or custom settings beyond native iOS/iPadOS security features are needed.