FBI says new Apple, Google smartphone encryption makes data inaccessible

WASHINGTON (KGO) -- Director of the FBI James Comey says the new encrypted operating systems for Apple and Google will make catching criminals extremely difficult.

Both Apple and Google say their new operating systems will be encrypted or rendered in code.

FBI officials say that would make smartphone data inaccessible, even with a court order.

Law enforcement could still intercept calls but might not be able to access call data, contacts, photos or emails stored on a phone.

"There will come a day when it will matter a great deal to the lives of people that we will be able to gain access to such devices," Comey said. "I want to have that conversation with companies responsible before that day comes."

Comey's comments are the most forceful yet from a top government official.