Apple has confirmed that it has left its iOS 10 beta kernel unencrypted in an effort to encourage developers to find security flaws.
App developers getting ready for the next version of Apple’s mobile operating system have made an interesting discovery; that the iOS 10 beta kernel has been left unencrypted.
In layman’s term, a kernel dictates how software can make use of available hardware and is responsible for keeping a device secure from threats.
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Naturally, an unencrypted kernel means that an iPhone running the beta would be compromised, making it an easy target for hackers and malcontents.
Apple has told TechCrunch that it has intentionally left the iOS 10 beta kernel unencrypted – stating that “œthe kernel cache doesn‘t contain any user info, and by unencrypting it we‘re able to optimize the operating system‘s performance without compromising security.”
This means that Apple have left it to developers to examine potential security flaws, enabling the company to quickly patch potential issues.
The news is a major shift for Apple, who up until now have encrypted the kernel in both beta and release forms of iOS.
According to expert Jonathan Zdziarski, Apple has likely made this shift to prevent groups from ‘hoarding’ vulnerabilities within iOS for later use. The FBI’s exploit to unlock the San Bernardino shooter’s locked iPhone 5c being a prevalent example.
With an unencrypted kernel, Apple could easily – and far more quickly – discover vulnerabilities within its system and patch them, though the move of course renders iOS more vulnerable to malcontents in the first instance.
Read: Apple updates, without the jargon!
What are your thoughts on the news that Apple has left the iOS 10 beta kernel unencrypted? What could this mean for end consumers? Be sure to let us know your opinion in the comments below!
Follow Bryan Smith on Twitter: @bryansmithSA
