Apple's restrictions on messaging apps was announced at its Worldwide Developers Conference 2019 in San Jose, California. (Image via The Verge)

Apple Plans to Restrict Facebook’s Messaging Apps Feature

Apple is reported to restrict the internet voice call functionality run by Facebook and other mobile software on its mobile operating system.

The change may have a big impact on Facebook’s Messenger and WhatsApp, in which both apps have features that allow users to make a voice call over the internet. Although the messaging apps can connect faster call, it can also perform other tasks like collecting data while running in the background.

Apple is positioning itself as a privacy-first company, that has pushed the tech company to impose such a restriction, even if it means intensifying feuds with Silicon Valley rivals.

For social media giant Facebook, the move will force the company to redesign its messaging apps to comply with Apple’s guidelines, as Facebook has also been accused of selling personal data collection to make money—which the company denied.

At this year’s Apple Worldwide Developers Conference in San Jose, the company also announced its part to continue privacy push by releasing a new ‘Sign in with Apple’ feature that will let users log in to apps and services without revealing email addresses.

In regards to the report, both Apple and WhatsApp have not responded to the request for comment.

Source: https://www.reuters.com/article/us-apple-facebook/apple-to-restrict-facebooks-messaging-apps-feature-the-information-idUSKCN1UW2DV