As part of the WWDC 2022 keynote, Apple officially unveiled the macOS 13 Ventura update. The Mac update includes new Continuity features, Stage Manager for multitasking capabilities, and more. According to the release notes Apple released after the WWDC keynote, there is also a notable new accessory security feature for external USB and Thunderbolt accessories.
According to Apple, MacBooks with an Apple Silicon processor will now ask users for permission before an external USB or Thunderbolt accessory can communicate with macOS. This means that if you connect a USB or Thunderbolt accessory to your MacBook, you must explicitly grant that accessory permission to communicate with macOS. Apple explains that this does not apply to "power adapters, standalone displays, or connections to an approved hub." Instead, it applies to non-certified hubs and accessories that request data access. As reported by The Verge reported, Apple has already had to release a macOS update after some MacBook Air and MacBook Pro users damaged their devices by using a non-compliant USB-C hub.
Apple Silicon Macs: Apple increases security with macOS 13 Ventura
This is how Apple explains this new feature in the release notes for the first beta of macOS Ventura:
On portable Mac computers with Apple Silicon, new USB and Thunderbolt accessories require user consent before the accessory can communicate with macOS when connected directly to the USB-C port. This does not apply to power adapters, standalone displays, or connections to an approved hub. Devices can still charge if you choose "Don't Allow." You can change the security configuration in System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Security. The initial configuration is "Ask for new accessories." Configuring an accessibility switch sets the policy to always allow accessory use. Approved devices can connect to a locked Mac for up to three days. Accessories connected during Software Update from earlier versions of macOS are automatically allowed. New accessories connected before the Mac restarts may be listed and work, but they won't be saved until they are connected to an unlocked Mac and explicitly allowed.
The first beta version of macOS 13 Ventura is now available to developers and will be released to the general public later this year. Whether your device is compatible with the new software, you can find out here. (Image: Apple)
