As the first apps tailored to take advantage of the iPhone 5S’ new M7 coprocessor reach handsets, the purpose of a new option in iOS 7’s privacy settings is becoming clear. Apps like Strava Run, MotionX-24/7, and Argus congregate under the Motion Activity sub-menu, where the option can be toggled on and off.
The M7’s sole task is to monitor and process motion data from the iPhone’s various sensors. This means more motion data can be collected than ever before. Motion Activity gives an app permission to collect and use this information.
Apple obviously thought this distinction was important enough to separate Motion Activity from traditional GPS permissions, and it’s a good call on their part. Privacy is a major concern of smartphone users, especially when it comes to tracking whereabouts and movements.
Expect more apps to join the fray in the future as developers build M7 support into their wares. This should include a ton of fitness apps, but we should see more general services like navigation and mapping taking advantage of the M7 in due time.
[via iLounge]
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