Our mobile devices have become so integrated into our world that we often don’t think twice about them. They’re the primary tools we use to record our lives. And they let us revisit all those happy moments with nothing more than a few swipes of a finger. But what happens to all those photos and videos stored on your iPhone when you die? Are they gone forever? Luckily, no. Apple Legacy Contact provides a way for your family and friends to continue enjoying all those memories.
It’s not a stretch to say that Apple has a massive following. Whether it’s an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, if you don’t use one of these devices, you likely know someone who does. And why not? They’re excellent devices, and Apple claims to value your privacy.
Snapping pics is a Pavlovian response. Whenever Speckles, the family guinea pig, does something cute, you grab your iPhone and snap a pic. Or when your uncoordinated sister trips over her own feet, there’s the phone again.
A lot of memories end up stored on these devices. And your loved ones likely want access to them after you die. But how do you make sure that happens without giving out your password? Apple users have Legacy Contact.
What is Apple’s Legacy Contact?
Apple’s Legacy Contact is a feature that gives a trusted person access to your account after you pass on. It’s available in iOS 15.
Wait, Does that Mean Someone Can See my Browser History?
Some of you may be freaking out right now. But don’t worry. Your browser history won’t end up on the front page of Buzzfeed. Legacy Contact only allows access to the following data:
- iCloud Photos,
- Notes,
- Mail,
- Contacts,
- Calendars,
- Reminders,
- Messages in iCloud,
- Call history,
- Files stored in iCloud,
- Health data,
- Voice memos,
- Safari bookmarks and Reading List, and
- iCloud backups.
Any licensed media such as music and movies you bought and in-app purchases are not accessible. Ditto for payment information, usernames, and passwords stored in your keychain.
So, your embarrassing browser history is safe from prying eyes.
How Do I Set Up a Legacy Contact?
Apple has an easy-to-follow support page that explains setting up Legacy Contact at How to add a Legacy Contact for your Apple ID.
Don’t worry. You can remove a legacy contact. But remember to set up a new one.
Why Should I Bother With Legacy Contact?
Legacy Contact is the safest, easiest option you have. Without Legacy Contact, you can give your password to someone you trust. But then you need to remember to tell them every time you update it.1 Plus, handing out your password is never a good idea from a security standpoint.
Another option is to write your password down and store it someplace like a safe. But again, you must remember to keep the copy in the safe current. We tend to put those tasks off until we forget about them.
Yet another option is to get a court order. Apple explains this method here. As you can see, it’s time-consuming and requires you to talk to an attorney.
How Does my Legacy Contact Access My Data After I Die?
Your Legacy Contact can access your account through the Apple website or their iOS device. Note that your legacy contact will need to provide a copy of your death certificate. That beats talking to an attorney to get a court order.2
Don’t Overlook Access to Your Data When Estate Planning
Dealing with your death will be hard enough on your family. Poor Speckles will be downright despondent. So, be nice to your grieving loved ones. Make sure they can access your electronic memories without any hassle. And spare them from having to talk to an attorney. Apple’s Legacy Contact does that.
A good estate plan safeguards every aspect of your legacy. That includes electronic data. Don’t overlook it.
References:
1 It’s a pain, but you should regularly change your passwords to protect your data.
2 Ugh. Who wants to talk to an attorney? They can be jerks.