The program allows you to add up to five Legacy contacts, that will be able to access your iCloud data, in the event of your passing.
In the modern age, the value of our information cannot be underestimated, especially if it is online. Our personal cloud vaults are home to memories, important documents and financial information.
But what happens when we move on? Who gets control of our information? Or for that matter, with whom should the information be shared?
Apple has tried to answer some of these questions with its Digital Legacy Program.
What is this?
As the name implies, Apple treats all digitally stored information as a legacy of your online footprints. To ensure that these prints point correctly, Apple gives you the power to designate a family member, friend or trusted contact who will access your online information stored with the Company in case you are has the capacity.
Previously, this data was nearly impossible to obtain without jumping through legal hoops, with the new program Apple wants to simplify the process.
How does it work?
First things first, you'll need to update your Apple device to at least iOS 15.2, iPadOS 15.2, or macOS 12.1, depending on which device you use. Then you just need to open Settings, then tap on your Apple ID and choose Password & Security.
You should see an option to add legacy contacts, and you can choose to nominate anyone you want. The contacts you want to add do not need to be in the Apple ecosystem or own an Apple device.
Once enrolled, the system will generate an access key that can be shared with them. In the event of your death, the Legacy Contact must visit Apple's dedicated Digital Legacy site, input the key, and present a copy of your death certificate.
Apple will then assess and approve the request, after which all iCloud data will be made available to your Contacts for a period of three years, after which it will be deleted.
What is included in this data?
According to Apple, almost all iCloud data will be available to your Contacts, including photos, notes, mail, contacts, calendar, reminders, messages stored on iCloud, call history, any file stored on iCloud, synced health data, voice memos Huh. Safari Bookmarks, Reading List and iCloud Backup.
What won't be available?
There is some information that Apple will not share with Contacts, including licensed media such as movies, songs or books. Your Contact will not have access to Apple Pay or any payment information associated with your Apple ID purchases.
Any data stored in iCloud Keychain such as passwords, WiFi details, Safari passwords and credit card information will also not be available to a legacy contact.