Apple has announced that its newest iPhone and iPad models, powered by iOS 26 and iPadOS 26, have received certification from NATO for handling classified data. This milestone marks the first time a consumer‑grade device meets the alliance’s stringent security requirements.
The Certification Process
According to Apple’s press release, the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) in Germany evaluated the built‑in protection mechanisms of iOS and found them sufficient for NATO’s classified‑data handling. The assessment focused on encryption standards, secure boot processes, and tamper‑resistance features that prevent unauthorized access.
Implications for Users
With this certification, users in all NATO countries can now employ their iPhones and iPads to store or transmit information classified up to the “restricted” level without needing additional software or hardware. The move is expected to streamline secure communications for government agencies, defense contractors, and other entities that rely on mobile technology.
«Today Apple announced that iPhone and iPad are the first consumer devices meeting NATO’s security requirements for handling classified data…», Apple said in its statement.