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NATO Clears iPhone and iPad for Restricted Classified Use

Apple’s consumer devices enter NATO’s vetted security catalogue following a German BSI evaluation.

Overview

  • Off-the-shelf iPhones and iPads running iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 can handle NATO‑restricted data without special software or settings.
  • The NATO Information Assurance Product Catalogue listing enables use across all member nations for restricted-level communications.
  • The entry specifies that native Mail, Calendar, and Contacts apps provide secure access to classified data.
  • Apple says the listed “indigo configuration” is simply a BSI evaluation label rather than a custom device setup, and BSI tested earlier OS versions.
  • Apple cites built-in protections such as the Secure Enclave, strong encryption, Face ID/Touch ID, and Memory Integrity Enforcement, with iPhone and iPad noted as the first consumer devices to gain this approval.