Apple mail tracking pixel

The infamous Apple Mail tracking pixel!

In 2020, Apple introduced a feature in its Mail app on iOS and macOS devices that allows senders to track whether an email has been opened or not. This feature is enabled by default, and it uses a small, transparent image (known as a "tracking pixel") to track the email's engagement.

Here's how it works:

  1. When you send an email using Apple Mail, the app adds a small, transparent image (usually 1x1 pixel) to the email body.
  2. When the recipient opens the email, their device downloads the image, which allows Apple Mail to track the email's engagement.
  3. The tracking pixel sends a request to Apple's servers, which then updates the email's tracking information.
  4. The sender can then view the tracking information in their email client, which shows whether the email was opened, forwarded, or replied to.

The tracking pixel is designed to be small and transparent, so it doesn't affect the appearance of the email. However, some users may not be comfortable with the idea of their email activity being tracked, especially if they're using a public computer or device.

If you're concerned about email tracking, you can disable the feature in Apple Mail settings:

On iOS:

  1. Open the Settings app.
  2. Tap on "Mail" (or "Messages" on older devices).
  3. Scroll down and toggle off "Load remote images" under "Advanced".

On macOS:

  1. Open the Mail app.
  2. Go to "Mail" > "Preferences" (or use the keyboard shortcut Command + Comma).
  3. Click on the "General" tab.
  4. Uncheck the box next to "Load remote images" under "Reading".

Keep in mind that disabling the tracking pixel may affect the appearance of your emails, as some images may not load properly.