Apple Reference Image Feature Process

Apple introduced the Reference Image feature in iOS 27 for iPhone 18 Pro. The main camera sensor cryptographically signs pixel data, confirming the photo was not edited or AI-generated. The feature is optional, and verification is done via Private Cloud Compute.

• Sensor enters a special mode and signs data immediately after capture
• Signature is applied before processing, unlike other authentication systems
• Feature works only with the main camera and is opt-in
• Verification is performed in Private Cloud Compute without pre-processing