Apple Reinforces Data Protection as AI Concerns Grow

Apple is taking steps to strengthen its data protection policies by introducing new controls for 'Full Disk Access' on its devices, including Macs, iPads, and Apple Watches. The move comes as concerns about AI's growing power and potential for misuse continue to rise. Meta's Muse AI has sparked worries about the impact of artificial intelligence tools on user privacy, prompting tech leaders to sign a voluntary AI safety pledge at the White House.

Apple's new controls will require explicit user consent before apps and AI agents can scan files, emails, messages, and browsing history. This tightening of security measures may further reinforce Apple's brand moat as it prepares to release its first foldable iPhone. Analysts are cautiously bullish on the stock, with a consensus rating of Moderate Buy from 32 analysts, and an average price target of $334 per share, indicating single-digit upside.

Bank of America analyst Wamsi Mohan has reiterated his Buy rating for Apple, setting a more aggressive price target of $370. With similar calls coming from firms like J.P. Morgan, the new AI safeguards and product pipeline are fueling expectations that Apple can continue to drive shareholder value even in a crowded tech landscape.