Publication Date: 30 Sep 2024

Key Changes in iOS 18

iOS 18 introduces a significant update in how devices manage MAC address randomization, enhancing user privacy. The feature, known as “Rotate Wi-Fi Address,” will change the MAC address of a device every 2 weeks. In the example below, the Private Wi-Fi Address setting for the particular Wi-Fi network has been set to “Rotating”, meaning that MAC Address randomization is enabled on the iOS device.

iOS 18 MAC Randomization Feature – Under Settings->Wi-Fi->
Click the “i” to see the “Private Wi-Fi Address” Setting

Rotating value indicates MAC Randomization in effect

Impact on Non-Secure SSIDs

For hotels offering public or guest Wi-Fi, this can create challenges. Guests who return after two weeks may experience login prompts as if they’re connecting for the first time. For long-stay guests, iOS 18’s MAC address randomization will cause them to see the login page again every two weeks, even if they’ve previously connected. As the network no longer recognizes their device, this disrupts what should be a seamless reconnection process.

Negative Effect on Guest Experience

Frequent re-authentication could frustrate returning guests, particularly those expecting uninterrupted access after an initial login. In an environment where guest satisfaction is paramount, these repeated prompts may lead to negative feedback, even though it’s caused by Apple’s privacy updates.   Another critical issue is that hotel Wi-Fi networks lose the ability to retain their guest device and status recognition, preventing network services from providing differentiating services like higher bandwidth for elite members, or auto-completion of guest details and accord privileges reserved for elite members.

Solutions to Consider

Short-Term Solution: Guests can disable MAC randomization for your network through their device settings, but this solution places the responsibility on them.  To do so, guests can select “Fixed” under the Private Wi-Fi address setting.

A Long-Term Strategy: To mitigate these disruptions, consider integrating network solutions designed to handle iOS 18’s privacy features without affecting the guest experience. At ANTlabs, we specialize in networking solutions like Hotspot 2.0 or Wi-Fi profile that address these changes head-on, ensuring smooth and consistent connectivity for your guests while keeping their privacy intact.

Next Steps

Now is the time to explore more robust, long-term options. Contact ANTlabs to discuss how we can help your network adapt to these changes, improving both guest satisfaction and network management efficiency.

Talk to us to know more about ANTlabs Hotspot 2.0 solutions to solve the MAC Randomization issue.

Source:  Apple Support – Use private Wi-Fi addresses on Apple devices (Scroll to the section “Learn how this feature works”)