Apple has reversed a decision to change its Hide My Email feature, which had faced criticism for potentially undermining user privacy. The service allows users to generate unique email addresses, but planned changes would have made it harder for people to sign up on websites.

The company moved from @icloud.com to the more obscure @private.icloud.com in an attempt to appease website owners who were blocking these temporary addresses. However, users and tech experts voiced concerns that this could defeat the purpose of hiding identities online.

Following backlash, Apple has confirmed it will keep using @icloud.com for Hide My Email addresses. An Apple spokesperson did not provide a specific reason for the change, but insiders suggest objections from employees played a role.

This shift demonstrates how technology companies can pivot on privacy features based on user feedback and employee input. It serves as a reminder that while tools to protect our online identities exist, their effectiveness depends on the company’s commitment to those values.