Apple’s secretive Global Police Summit brought together cops from seven countries to learn how to use Apple products for surveillance and policing work. The event, held at Apple Park in October 2023, aimed to help law enforcement agencies utilize devices like the iPhone, Vision Pro, and CarPlay. This initiative showcases Apple’s increased collaboration with police, despite its previous standoff with the FBI over privacy concerns. The company has been working on various projects with cops, including developing apps on its platforms and providing training sessions to discuss new products and features beneficial to law enforcement.
The Global Police Summit, which first took place in 2019, has seen participation from as many as 50 police department employees from countries such as Australia and Sweden. During the summit, Apple engineers engage with attendees to discuss app development, while police agencies share their successes and innovations in using Apple technology. The collaboration between Apple and law enforcement agencies has been described as highly beneficial, with LAPD deputy chief John McMahon noting that the event showcased how other countries are ahead in utilizing technology for policing. Among the topics covered in the summit were presentations on new products like CarPlay, Crash Detection, Emergency SOS, and Vision Pro.
One noteworthy example of Apple’s collaboration with police is the development of the OnDuty app by the New Zealand Police, which allows officers to access and store police information, including data on locations, license plate numbers, and criminal histories. The app is connected to the National Intelligence Database, providing situational awareness and aiding in crime prevention efforts. Apple’s efforts in the public safety market have reportedly increased its market share significantly in targeted regions, with some countries achieving 100% market share in public safety.
Apple’s engagement with police agencies in California has been particularly close, with partnerships formed with agencies like the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, the LAPD, and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. These agencies have tested various Apple products for surveillance and communication purposes, such as Vision Pro, iPhones, and Macs. There is also a growing interest in utilizing CarPlay in police vehicles, with discussions held with car manufacturer Ford to explore its integration. The safety aspect of incorporating CarPlay is highlighted, as traditional in-car laptops have posed risks to officers in traffic collisions.
Despite the success of the Global Police Summit and Apple’s efforts to collaborate with law enforcement, the future of the event is uncertain as budget constraints led to its cancellation in 2024. Gary Oldham, the former head of Apple’s public safety strategy, left the company soon after, raising questions about the continuation of the summit. Police departments express disappointment over the event’s cancellation, hoping for its reinstatement in the future. Regardless of the summit’s fate, law enforcement agencies remain eager to enhance their use of Apple’s technology, emphasizing the importance of continuing the collaboration for improved policing capabilities.
