BT Backs New Apple iOS 26.3 Feature to Limit UK Location Data on Mobile

Apple’s next major iOS software update for iPhones – v26.3 – looks set to include an interesting new feature, which aims to improve user privacy by limiting the amount of location data available to mobile network operators. The move is apparently set to be supported by EE (BT) in the United Kingdom, although no other UK operators are currently named.

The issue of location data on mobile networks is one we’ve touched on before in a very different context (here). Otherwise, mobile operators usually collect such data to support key functionality, such as for call routing and messaging, analytics, network management, ensuring you are connected to the best mast (cell site) and not to mention lawful use by the emergency services etc.

Apple’s new Limit Precise Location setting will reduce how much information mobile operators can access to determine your precise location. But this will only be available on compatible iPhone and iPad models (e.g. iPhone Air, iPhone 16e, or iPad Pro (M5) Wi-Fi + Cellular) with supported carriers (e.g. BT / EE in the UK).

The related information page on Apple’s website (here) explains this in more detail, which also confirms that it won’t impact the data available to the emergency services, which is good.

Apple’s Statement

With this setting turned on, some information made available to cellular networks is limited. As a result, they might be able to determine only a less precise location — for example, the neighbourhood where your device is located, rather than a more precise location (such as a street address). The setting doesn’t impact signal quality or user experience.

The limit precise location setting doesn’t impact the precision of the location data that is shared with emergency responders during an emergency call.

This setting affects only the location data available to cellular networks. It doesn’t impact the location data that you share with apps through Location Services. For example, it has no impact on sharing your location with friends and family with Find My.

Turn limit precise location on or off

1. Open Settings, then tap Cellular.

2. Tap Cellular Data Options. If you have more than one phone number under SIMs, tap one of your lines.

3. Scroll down to Limit Precise Location.

4. Turn the setting on or off. You might be prompted to restart your device.

Sadly, we aren’t told precisely what part of the data won’t be shared and obviously customers on O2 and VodafoneThree (Vodafone and Three UK) won’t see any benefit, until they introduce support for the feature, assuming they plan to do so (we’ve asked and will report back). Credits to one of our readers (Harrison) for the tip.