Apple's iOS 26.3 Lets You Hide Your Location from Carriers

Your phone company has always known exactly where you are, down to the street address, but Apple just changed that game.

The tech giant's new iOS 26.3 update includes a "limit precise location" setting that stops mobile carriers from pinpointing your exact location through cell towers. Instead of seeing precisely where you are, carriers will only know your general neighborhood.

The feature launches in beta testing now and rolls out to everyone in the coming weeks. It works on newer devices with Apple's custom C1 or C1X modems, including the iPhone Air, iPhone 16e, and cellular M5 iPad Pro.

Setting it up takes seconds. Just open Settings, tap your cellular service, select Mobile Data Options, and toggle on Limit Precise Location. One quick restart and your location becomes more private.

Apple promises the change won't affect your signal strength or slow down your data. Your phone still works exactly the same way, just with less tracking.

Emergency calls remain protected too. When you dial 911 or your local emergency number, responders still get your exact location instantly. This privacy feature only applies to your everyday carrier tracking.

Right now, only a handful of carriers support the feature. In the US, Boost Mobile leads the way. EE and BT offer it in the UK, while Telekom provides it in Germany. Thailand's AIS and True networks also signed on.

The timing matters because location privacy concerns keep growing. People increasingly question why their phone company needs to know their every move, especially when that data could be sold, hacked, or subpoenaed.

Why This Inspires

This update shows how major tech companies can prioritize user privacy without sacrificing functionality. Apple found a way to keep your phone working perfectly while giving you control over who sees your movements.

The feature also doesn't mess with app-based location services. Your maps, weather apps, and rideshare services still work normally because you control those permissions separately.

As more carriers adopt this technology, millions of people worldwide will gain a new layer of digital privacy in their daily lives.