Google and Apple said they are hardening encryption tactics on devices powered by their mobile operating systems
The move should mean that even the government with its court-issued warrants will be blocked from getting hold of pictures, messages and other personal data stored on forthcoming Android or Apple smartphones and tablets.
Google and Apple are intent on firming up trust shaken by revelations of massive online spying by US officials and by the recent hacking of celebrity iCloud accounts that exposed nude photos.
A Google spokesman told the media that encryption is already offered for the Android system on smartphones and tablets, but will be turned on automatically in the upcoming version of software.
“For over three years Android has offered encryption, and keys are not stored off of the device, so they cannot be shared with law enforcement,” the spokesman said in a statement.
