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Use of contacts by iOS apps

In my app privacy report I noticed that apps such as Reminders have accessed my contacts. This is despite my not knowingly set up any reminders that use my contacts. Other apps are Photos, Calendars, Health and Safari. I can probably understand Photos (for sharing) and Calendars (for invites), but not Safari and definitely not Health. Why do these apps access my contacts?

iPhone 11 Pro Max, iOS 15

Posted on Feb 6, 2022 2:47 AM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Feb 11, 2022 4:51 AM

I understand that iOS stock apps don't require permissions. And I do know that iOS is the best for privacy, which is why I use it. But that does not exempt Apple from being transparent about why it needs access to things unless it is obvious.


The point about Health and emergency contacts is valid; I hadn't thought of that, thanks.


Still curious about Safari though.

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Feb 11, 2022 4:51 AM in response to LD150

I understand that iOS stock apps don't require permissions. And I do know that iOS is the best for privacy, which is why I use it. But that does not exempt Apple from being transparent about why it needs access to things unless it is obvious.


The point about Health and emergency contacts is valid; I hadn't thought of that, thanks.


Still curious about Safari though.

Feb 6, 2022 3:40 AM in response to SJ-1

iOS stock apps do not need your permission. It is how they are designed. The data cannot go anywhere.

Only third party apps need permission.

Safari can be given one off photo access and is slightly different, but Chrome would need to be given all accesses.

Health needs to access contacts because of the emergency medical ID.

You are safe, trust iOS which is the safest and most private phone operating system.

Use of contacts by iOS apps

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