Apple to flag AI requests for Mac data after Meta’s Muse complaints

Apple plans to modify its Mac operating system to make it clearer when AI agents request access to all data stored on a computer, according to a Reuters report. This decision comes after complaints about Meta Platforms' Muse AI agent, which can perform complex tasks like cancelling subscriptions and negotiating prices. Some users claim Muse accessed private messages without their knowledge.

While iPhones and iPads use sandboxing to prevent apps from accessing each other's data, Macs offer more flexibility through the Full Disk Access setting, allowing applications to access all data with user permission. Apple says some developers misuse this feature, putting users at risk. The company plans to introduce additional controls, requiring users to explicitly grant applications Full Disk Access.

As AI agents become more capable, the risks associated with this level of access will increase, Apple warns. Apple's move follows claims by Jason Aten, a technology columnist for Inc magazine, who said Muse read private messages on his Mac without enabling Full Disk Access. Meta spokesperson Andy Stone refuted these claims, stating that access to Apple's Messages app through Muse is strictly opt-in and that users can revoke the permission at any time.

Apple has declined to comment beyond its statement, and Meta has not yet responded to Reuters' request for comment. These changes highlight the growing importance of operating-system permissions as autonomous AI agents gain the ability to perform tasks across applications and access users' data.