Apple aims to close a security gap to prevent thieves from snatching iPhones. It plans to use sensors to detect the device's movements, and if the system detects an abnormal tug, it will lock the screen automatically.
The website 9to5Mac reported recent information indicating that Apple is about to enhance iPhone user security by using motion sensors and distance measurement from the Apple Watch to immediately lock the device if someone steals the smartphone while the owner is holding it.
Previously, Apple offered security tools against criminals snatching phones such as Find My and Stolen Device Protection. However, these systems become ineffective if a thief manages to grab the iPhone while the screen is active, giving the criminal immediate access to sensitive data.
For this reason, Apple is developing a new security feature to close this vulnerability. The system will instantly detect if an iPhone is yanked or stolen from the user's hand, similar to Android's Theft Detection Lock feature.
The system operates by relying on signals from multiple sources, including motion sensor data from the device itself and distance evaluation from the paired Apple Watch. If it detects abnormal movement and confirms the device has been stolen, the screen will lock automatically right away.
Besides basic sensors, the feature will work alongside Apple's Stolen Device Protection measures, assessing additional factors like connection to familiar Wi-Fi networks or being in routine places such as home and work. If suspicious behavior indicates the device has left the user’s usual area, the system will not only lock the screen but also restrict access to sensitive data at the highest level.
However, it remains unclear whether this enhanced security measure against theft will be included in the iOS 27 operating system.