The iPhone has a 'gray list' of words and phrases that won't auto-complete
Researchers and reporters have discovered that some words and phrases are banned from auto-complete and swipe typing.
Apple's iOS operating system appears to have a hidden "gray list" of words and phrases that are not auto-completed or accessible through the swipe-to-type feature. This list, potentially containing over 100,000 entries, includes references to politics, drugs, and other potentially sensitive topics. When attempting to type phrases like "sleepy Joe," "dictator Trump," or "Tibetan independence" using these methods, users will not see auto-complete suggestions or be able to swipe-type these terms.
Similarly, terms related to drug use are also unavailable through these functions. Apple has acknowledged the existence of this list, stating that the keyboard is designed to avoid offering suggestions that might be inappropriate or offensive. However, the company has not commented directly on the list and has not provided much transparency regarding its exact contents or the reasons behind its inclusion.
Experts and researchers have expressed a desire for more clarity on this matter, suggesting that a "gray list" represents a form of light-touch censorship that could have a significant impact due to Apple's vast user base.
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