Apple developing feature to verify photo authenticity
Apple is reportedly developing an iOS feature to help verify the origin and authenticity of photos taken with an iPhone. The system would embed metadata into images at the point of capture.
Apple appears to be developing an iOS feature that could help verify the authenticity of photographs taken with an iPhone. The 9to5Mac website reports that iOS 27 beta 5 includes code references for an "Apple Reference Image" system.
This system would embed provenance metadata into iPhone photographs at the time of capture. This would enable users to prove the origin of their photos and demonstrate that they are not AI-generated fabrications.
"Apple Reference Image" is not yet live, but a privacy disclosure within the iOS beta notes that the feature will be off by default. If and when it rolls out, 9to5Mac indicates it can be enabled via Settings > Camera > Reference Image > Reference Mode.
The development comes amid growing concerns about the proliferation of AI-generated fake images, commonly known as deepfakes. Such a tool could offer a solution to the challenges of digital media credibility.