4 Ways Privacy Film on Your iPhone or Mac Can Protect You

A new Apple patent has revealed an exciting, futuristic addition to the company’s devices: A built-in privacy film. While a patent is not a guarantee that the innovation is going to make it to production, there are plenty of reasons for Apple to consider a privacy screen/film/filter for iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, and other devices.

Like many privacy screens already available, Apple’s version would use a light-blocking layer in between screen panels that only allows a clear view from certain angles, otherwise darkening the screen at wider angles so it’s difficult to see what someone is doing. The big difference is that Apple has included plans to make its privacy layer built-in instead of an add-on, and the company is interested in a version that works with curved screens as well.

But all of this raises an excellent question for iPhone and laptop users everywhere: Just how important is a privacy film? Does it really add much security value? Well, that depends on your situation – in some ways, privacy screens can make a significant impact. Continue reading to browse four major ways that privacy screens are marketed and what beneficial effects they can have for your MacBook, iPad or iPhone.