Methodology

According to Apple, there are three ways how the collected data points may be handled:

• It may be used to track users;
• It may be linked to users;
• It may not be linked to users.

Tracking means connecting or associating data gathered from the app about a specific user or device (like a user ID or device ID) with information from sources outside the said app (such as a third-party advertising network). Tracking is mainly used for targeted ads or measuring purposes in advertising. Also, this data could be shared with data brokers (companies that collect and sell personal information).

Linking is when a service provider associates the collected data with the user’s identity. As per Apple, “data collected from an app is often linked to the user’s identity unless specific privacy protections are put in place before collection to de-identify or anonymize it.”

Also, “personal information” or “personal data,” as defined in relevant privacy laws, is usually linked to the user’s identity by default.

We gathered our data from Apple (2024). App Store.

For the complete research material behind this study, visit here.

Yes, you should be able to turn off the tracking option.

If you have iOS 14.5 or a newer version, apps have to get your permission to track data on apps, websites, and other locations owned by third parties. You can select the Ask App Not to Track option or allow the tracking.

We added only those devices that could be found on the Apple App Store. In addition, the apps were selected in March 2023. This means some well-known devices might not have been popular then.

However, if you have specific apps you're interested in, contact us at media@surfshark.com, and we'll add them to the next project update.

All data points and their definitions are taken from the official Apple App Store website. You can click here to find the original table.