Apple suppliers: How the company prevents software leaks

It's like a small miracle: Although thousands of people are employed by Apple's suppliers in China, very little about software rarely leaks to the public. In most cases, the sources for leaks lie elsewhere. And that, even though new iPhone generations require the latest software, which is not yet released at the time the devices are built – and which consequently has to be installed in the factories for testing and later sale. Apparently, a comprehensive security concept prevents leaks, as a report suggests.

The Apple blog AppleInsider refers here to people familiar with the internal processes at Apple's supplier companies. According to them, Apple takes extensive precautions not only in terms of space and access but especially in terms of technology to prevent leaks. In the early stages of production, pre-release versions of the software are needed in the factories, among other things, to test device functions and ensure quality.

Apple prefers its employees

According to the report, specially secured rooms are used, which have only a single door as an entrance and which – like the doors in Apple's workplaces worldwide – are secured with a badge scanner. In addition, security personnel are used who check the badges of Apple employees when they enter. Curtains are intended to prevent unauthorized personnel from gaining insight from the outside. In addition, high-resolution cameras are supposed to secure the workplaces, storage shelves, and parts containers. Their recordings are saved on a server in a separate, also access-restricted room.

Apple is very restrictive in selecting employees who are allowed to enter the room. Own employees are preferably granted access. They are also allowed to bring laptops and USB sticks. Employees of the supplier companies may only enter the rooms with special permission and must sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) beforehand. They are not allowed to carry mobile phones, cameras, or recording devices. Scanners ensure that they comply with this.

Devices are specially secured

However, Apple has also specially secured the technical equipment. Prepared Mac Minis are used as workstations. These cannot send emails, the USB ports are blocked, and Wi-Fi is deactivated. Their network access is also physically separated from the rest of the factory network. The test devices themselves are monitored for their Wi-Fi activity and can only access approved addresses on the internet. Bluetooth and WiFi are otherwise permanently deactivated, and camera lenses and SIM slots are sealed.

According to the findings of the report, Apple also uses a special test version of its operating system called VendorUI. Its existence became known with earlier iOS versions. It allows buttons, speakers, ports, Touch ID, and Face ID to be tested individually. The Face ID test is also carried out via the Animoji function in the Messages app, while motion sensors are checked for their function using tests in the Compass, Measure, and Notes apps. Errors, crashes, and missing features are logged and reported.

(mki)