IPhones Theft Proof feature relevant to Apple’s latest security update introduces Activation Lock for it’s components, which went live for beta testers yesterday. This new measure is likely to spark debate, especially among those who prefer DIY repairs using parts from broken devices. Apple is also working on solutions to address concerns about repairability.
Find Me was Apple’s initial major theft-prevention feature, allowing users to track their stolen devices using another Apple product or the web. Over time, thieves learned to turn off the tracking feature, but with iOS 15, even when the device is powered off, it remains in a low-power state. This allows nearby iOS devices to detect and report its location, making it easier to track even if the iPhone runs out of battery or is reset.
Activation Lock, introduced in 2013, was a significant advancement in security. It prevents anyone from using a stolen iPhone, even if it has been wiped and reset. The phone remains linked to the original owner’s Apple ID and password, making it almost impossible to activate and use by thieves. This feature effectively eliminated the market for stolen iPhones, reducing them to parts only.
In April, Apple announced plans to extend Activation Lock to iPhone components. This means that key parts like the battery, camera, and display will now be linked to the original iPhone’s Apple Account.
If a component is removed and placed in another device, it will be restricted and might show warning messages. This extension is expected to significantly impact the market for stolen iPhones by making them less valuable and harder to sell.
While this new feature will make iPhones theft proof, it also complicates repairs using parts from other devices. Previously, Activation Lock caused issues in private and corporate sales of devices.
Apple is addressing this by introducing ways to remove Activation Lock in bulk, which should make the process smoother for business customers and repair services. Overall, this update is a major step toward making iPhones theft proof.
