Enable Advanced Data Protection for iCloud in North America
Apple’s Advanced Data Protection (ADP) offers the highest level of security for iCloud users, ensuring that your personal data remains private — even from Apple itself. This feature extends end-to-end encryption to more categories of iCloud data, giving you full control over your information. In this OnePlus guide, you’ll learn how users in the U.S. and Canada can enable and manage Advanced Data Protection for maximum privacy.
What Is Advanced Data Protection
Advanced Data Protection is an optional feature that strengthens iCloud security by encrypting your data before it leaves your device. Only you have access to the encryption keys — not Apple, not third parties.
Key benefits:
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End-to-end encryption for 20+ iCloud data types, including Photos, Notes, and iCloud Drive.
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Full privacy control — even Apple cannot read your encrypted data.
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Protection from breaches in case of unauthorized access to iCloud servers.
OnePlus Tip: With Advanced Data Protection, your iCloud backup, photos, reminders, and more are encrypted using your device’s unique keys — meaning only you can decrypt them.
Step 1: Check iOS Version and Eligibility
Before enabling ADP, ensure your device is compatible:
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iPhone must run iOS 16.2 or later.
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macOS devices must run macOS 13.1 (Ventura) or later.
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Apple ID must have two-factor authentication (2FA) enabled.
To check your software version:
Go to Settings → General → About → Software Version.
Step 2: Update Your Devices
Update your iPhone, iPad, and Mac to the latest software version to access the latest iCloud features.
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Go to Settings → General → Software Update.
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Tap Download and Install.
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Repeat this for all Apple devices signed in with the same Apple ID.
OnePlus Tip: Keep all your devices updated to avoid sync errors when Advanced Data Protection is turned on.
Step 3: Turn On Two-Factor Authentication
Advanced Data Protection requires 2FA to verify your identity when logging in or restoring data.
To enable:
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Open Settings → [Your Name] → Password & Security.
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Tap Turn On Two-Factor Authentication.
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Add a trusted phone number for verification.
Step 4: Add a Recovery Contact or Recovery Key
Before enabling ADP, Apple requires a recovery option in case you lose access to your account.
Option 1 – Recovery Contact:
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Go to Settings → [Your Name] → Sign-In & Security → Account Recovery.
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Tap Add Recovery Contact.
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Choose a trusted person from your contacts.
Option 2 – Recovery Key:
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In Account Recovery, toggle on Recovery Key.
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Write down the 28-character key and store it in a safe place.
OnePlus Tip: Apple Support cannot help you recover encrypted data if you lose both your password and recovery key.
Step 5: Enable Advanced Data Protection
Now you’re ready to turn on ADP.
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Go to Settings → [Your Name] → iCloud → Advanced Data Protection.
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Tap Turn On Advanced Data Protection.
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Follow the verification steps using your trusted device or recovery contact.
Once activated, iCloud will begin encrypting your supported data categories.
Step 6: Verify Which Data Is Encrypted
After enabling ADP, you can view which data types are protected by end-to-end encryption:
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iCloud Backup
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Photos
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Notes
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Reminders
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iCloud Drive
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Voice Memos
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Safari Bookmarks
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Wallet Passes
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Messages in iCloud
Some metadata, such as email headers and calendar invitations, remain accessible to maintain functionality.
Step 7: Manage Your Advanced Data Protection Settings
At any time, you can manage or disable ADP:
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Open Settings → [Your Name] → iCloud → Advanced Data Protection.
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Tap Turn Off if needed (not recommended).
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You may be prompted to confirm your recovery method again.
OnePlus Tip: Keep ADP turned on across all devices to maintain end-to-end encryption for your iCloud data.
Step 8: Troubleshooting Advanced Data Protection
If you can’t enable ADP:
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Make sure all devices signed in with your Apple ID are updated.
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Confirm that 2FA is turned on.
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Remove any old or unsupported devices linked to your Apple ID.
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Sign out and back into iCloud if you see setup errors.
If the option is missing, it may not yet be available in your region — check Apple’s iCloud security support page for updates.
Related OnePlus Guides
FAQ
1. Is Advanced Data Protection available in all regions?
Currently, it’s available in the U.S., Canada, and most major markets. Apple continues expanding access globally.
2. What happens if I forget my Apple ID password?
You can recover your account using your recovery contact or recovery key — Apple cannot access encrypted data.
3. Does ADP affect iCloud sharing or collaboration?
No, but shared items (like shared albums or notes) remain unencrypted to allow other users access.
Final Thoughts
Enabling Advanced Data Protection is one of the best ways to secure your iCloud account. By encrypting your data end-to-end, Apple ensures that only you control access to your information. With OnePlus’ guide, North American users can confidently turn on ADP, set up recovery options, and enjoy complete privacy across their Apple ecosystem.
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