Noted Apple code spelunker Gui Rambo has an interesting find regarding the M4 chip in the new iPad Pro and a new security feature. He explains on Mastodon:

As he explains, the Secure Enclave in the M4 has been enhanced to essentially use pixels on the display directly to render the indicator light for both camera and microphone access. This means that signals from the camera and microphone are able to “talk” directly to pixels on the display vs. using iPadOS as an intermediary. The net effect is that it is much less likely a malicious actor could prevent the indicator light from displaying, or secretly access the camera/microphone to surreptitiously record you.

This tech is super cool, and it is logical to assume we’ll see a version of this on the next iPhone. However, I can’t help but wonder why Apple doesn’t just add a dedicated indicator LED on iPads and iPhones instead of going to all this trouble. I’m guessing the reason begins and ends with “cost”.

Gui Rambo via 9to5Mac.