If you’re an iPhone user and have ever attempted to lock your Facebook profile, the feature may have been missing from the app. This has been a mystery for many users as this feature can be found on Android versions of the same app and why Facebook profile lock is not available on iPhone. Fortunately, an explanation has recently been provided as to why this feature is unavailable to iPhone users.
Facebook profile lock is a feature that enables users to prevent those not their friends on the platform from viewing their profile picture and cover photo, nor enlarging them. It’s an essential privacy measure for those wanting to keep personal information hidden from strangers or potential stalkers. Unfortunately, iPhone users have been unable to access this feature for some time on the app.
This is due to an iOS feature called App Tracking Transparency, introduced in iOS 14.5. This requires apps to request permission from users before tracking their activity across different apps and websites. Facebook has vocally opposed this measure as it hinders its ability to collect user data and target ads efficiently.
Facebook has had to modify its app in order to meet the new regulations, resulting in the absence of the profile lock feature on the iPhone. A spokesperson from Facebook stated, “We are working with Apple on bringing this feature to iPhone users at some point in the future; however, we do not have an estimated timeline at present.”
Facebook may want to collect user data for its advertising needs, but it is essential that user privacy and security come first. A profile lock feature is an indispensable tool for those who wish to control who can view their personal information; thus, its availability across all platforms should be ensured.
iPhone users can still take advantage of this feature through their mobile browser. Simply log in to your Facebook account on Safari or another browser, go to your profile picture, select “More,” and then choose “Lock Profile” to activate it.
Finally, the mystery of why the Facebook profile lock is missing from the iPhone has been solved: it’s due to iOS App Tracking Transparency. While it may be frustrating that this feature is currently unavailable in the app, it is essential for protecting user privacy and security. Hopefully, Facebook and Apple can work together again soon to bring back this feature for iPhone users.