Apple is reportedly working on a new anti-theft feature that would automatically lock down an iPhone as soon as it’s grabbed from the owner’s hand.
That’s according to a 9to5Mac report, which claims Apple is looking to expand its Stolen Device Protection feature.
Currently, if the phone is looked, Stolen Device Protection adds an extra layer of security by enabling users to add a Security Delay when attempting to change Apple Account Passwords and other key biometric features. The anti-snatch tech could close the loophole of a thief grabbing your handset while it’s in use and unlocked.
“In the event that your iPhone is stolen, the security delay is designed to prevent a thief from performing critical operations so that you can mark your device as lost and make sure your Apple account is secure,” Apple explains in a support page.
Now 9to5Mac reports it has seen code suggesting Apple is working on a a feature that uses the iPhone’s accelerometer to determine that a handset has been snatched from the owner’s grasp in order to automatically lock the iPhone. It sounds a bit like the fall detection feature for Apple Watch that can determine a wearer has taken a tumble and suggest a call to the emergency services. It’s also just like the Theft Protection Lock feature for Android phones.
Speaking of the Apple Watch, Apple may also use the distance from the companion iPhone to help confirm whether the phone has indeed been snatched. If, for example, an assailant is running away with your iPhone at speed, your wristwatch knows about it thanks to the Find My network. From there you could easily use the watch to lock down the phone.
The report says: “Additionally, once fully implemented and enabled, the feature will take into account the same rules that apply to Stolen Device Protection: whether the iPhone is connected to a familiar WiFi network, and whether it is at a familiar location, such as home or work.
“If those conditions suggest the iPhone has been taken from its owner at an unfamiliar place, in addition to automatically locking the device, the feature will restrict access to the same areas protected by Stolen Device Protection.”
The site doesn’t know when the feature will be announced, but if its sitting within iOS code, there’s a chance it might come within the iOS 27 cycle.
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