Apple's iPhone and iPad have become the first consumer mobile devices certified to handle NATO restricted-level classified information after meeting stringent information assurance requirements. The German government conducted security testing and evaluation, granting approval for iPhones and iPads running iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 to access classified data across all NATO nations. No special software or settings are required for the certification.

Apple touted its security architecture in the announcement, emphasizing built-in protections across hardware, software, and Apple silicon. The company highlighted features including best-in-class encryption, biometric authentication with Face ID, and Memory Integrity Enforcement. These same consumer-grade protections have now been recognized as meeting stringent government and international security requirements for restricted data.

Apple's vice president of security Ivan Krstić noted the achievement represents a transformation in how security is delivered. Unlike the past, when secure devices were only available to government and enterprise organizations after massive investments in custom security solutions, Apple has built the world's most secure devices for all users. The iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 updates are listed on the NATO Information Assurance Product Catalogue, enabling secure access to Mail, Calendar, and Contacts with built-in apps.