Earlier today, we reported that for the first time on iOS, the kernel is unencrypted in the first developer beta of iOS 10. At the time, we weren’t sure if this was done purposefully, or if it was a human error and that it would be corrected in the forthcoming betas of iOS 10. Now, we’ve learned that Apple has done this on purpose, (via TechCrunch).
An Apple spokesperson says that the kernel cache does not contain any sensitive user data and by unencrypting it, Apple can better optimize performance while security isn’t compromised.
“The kernel cache doesn’t contain any user info, and by unencrypting it we’re able to optimize the operating system’s performance without compromising security,” an Apple spokesperson told TechCrunch.
The kernel specifically controls the device’s security and how developers are able to access a devices hardware. By opening it up, it’ll allow security researchers to better discover flaws and report them to Apple to patch the flaw.
While this is a surprise, it’s nice to see Apple being open about unencrypting the kernel. Hopefully, by doing so performance and security can be improved on in the future.
