On Monday Apple announced that the iOS 15 update will include a new function that will cause the Notes app to self delete if it catches even a whiff of somebody trying to use screenshots from the app to pass off as an actual public apology.
The move comes after the tech giant became increasingly aware of the growing number of celebrities and influencers abusing the application as a means to seem as if they were genuinely remorseful for their past actions. A researcher from Apple found that 8/10 public apologies posted to Instagram were written using the Notes application before a social media blackout of on average of 7-21 days. Lead researcher Ted Lark adds “that is if they hold the self awareness and accountability to reflect on their problematic pasts and apologise at all”.
Developers explained that the software has learnt key phrases that will trigger the app to automatically delete, such as: “I am deeply sorry for my actions”, “I would like apologise to those I may have hurt”, “I’m not perfect” and “I am a part of the problem”.
The developers also divulged that they are working with public relation professionals from all over the world to continue to teach the software possible new apologetic-type phrasing users may begin to use as a loophole. Such phrases include: “If I could turn back time,” “If I could find a way”, “I’d take back those words that’ve hurt you and you’d stay”.