Apple is adding a feature to iPhones that will prohibit thieves from accessing essential device data if they know a user's passcode.
Apple launched the first beta version of iOS 17.3, which features a new Stolen Device Protection feature, on Tuesday. When accessing stored passwords, updating Apple ID settings, viewing payment information, or disabling Find My iPhone, the upgrade will require Face ID or Touch ID – with no option to use a passcode.
Thieves have been able to access personal data on iPhones, steal money, and disrupt a person's digital life in some situations simply by knowing the device passcode. A robber, for example, may observe users entering their passcode into their iPhone in public before snatching the device.
A thief would be unable to wreak as much harm if access to vital portions of the iPhone required Face ID or Touch ID. It would be more difficult for thieves to erase the device and resell it. Apple has not specified when the new feature will be available to all consumers, but the company plans to release iOS 17.3 widely early next year.
"As threats to user devices continue to evolve, we work tirelessly to develop powerful new protections for our users and their data," the company stated in a statement. "In the rare cases where a thief can observe the user entering the passcode and then steal the device, Stolen Device Protection adds a sophisticated new layer of protection."
For the most sensitive operations, such as changing an Apple ID password, turning off the Stolen Device Protection feature, establishing a new passcode, and disabling Touch ID or Face ID, the upgrade will add a one-hour delay and require a second Face ID or Touch ID scan. There will be no delay if users are in a known area, such as their home or workplace.
This story first appeared on bloomberg.com. You may read it here.