On October 2, Apple said it will add controls to macOS’s Full Disk Access, a permission originally intended to let backup apps work around other privacy protections. The company warned that some apps use it in ways that could expose files, email, messages and browsing history without users fully understanding the reach. For communication apps, Apple said, the risk can extend to the privacy of people on the other end. It promised that granting this level of access will require a “very explicit” action, but gave no timetable or design details. Apple linked the change to increasingly capable and autonomous AI agents.

One account holder’s approval can affect another person. A message sits on two devices, but the recipient chooses which apps may inspect it on their Mac. An AI agent with broad access could draw on private records well beyond a task such as organizing files; Apple’s announcement, however, does not accuse any named product of misusing the permission. The practical test for the new controls will be whether the request explains what an app can reach and lets a person grant only the access needed for a task. Until Apple shows the design, users cannot tell whether the planned action will clarify that boundary or simply add another confirmation to a broad permission.