Apple plans to tighten controls around Full Disk Access on macOS, citing risks associated with AI agents. The company says the changes are intended to ensure that users grant this broad permission through a deliberate, explicit action of their own.
A permission that reaches beyond files
Full Disk Access was originally designed to let backups work properly. The permission gives an application access to files and mail, as well as messages and browsing history.
Meta’s Muse app offers users the option to enable Full Disk Access. That makes the permission an optional setting for the AI application.
Apple warns about increasingly autonomous agents
In a new post addressed to developers, Apple said some developers are using Full Disk Access in ways that could expose the contents of users’ systems without their full awareness or understanding. Its concern is how that extensive permission is being used, and whether users understand the access they are granting.
Apple expects the risks associated with such broad access to increase substantially as AI agents become more capable and autonomous.
Planned controls focus on informed consent
The planned controls are intended to require a very explicit user action before an application can receive Full Disk Access. Apple says users who genuinely want to grant that level of access should still be able to do so.
Apple also says it wants to explain the risks clearly before users grant the permission, so they can make informed decisions about their data and privacy.
