We’ve added a new security.is_relay field to responses we return when you look up an IP address (as always, official client libraries have also been updated).

The purpose of this new field is to identify IP addresses that are used by a relay node. Unlike VPNs, relay nodes are location-aware. Instead of bypassing geo-controls, a relay node pools multiple users behind the same IP address.

Using relay nodes is a manner to protect the identity and privacy of users behind individual IPs. Currently, we identify relay IP addresses from Apple Private Relay (APR).

When the new field is_relay returns true as value, then you know the request comes from devices making use of a relay node.

With the end of the year that’s also the time for us to thank you for an amazing 2021. See you in January, and have a wonderful holiday season!