Apple Develops iPhone Auto-Lock Against Snatching, Using Apple Watch and WiFi Signals
Updated
Updated · 9to5Mac · May 26
Apple Develops iPhone Auto-Lock Against Snatching, Using Apple Watch and WiFi Signals
3 articles · Updated · 9to5Mac · May 26
Apple is building an iPhone feature that automatically locks a device when sensors determine it has been snatched from a user’s hand.
The system would use signals including the iPhone’s accelerometer, then check distance from a paired Apple Watch to judge whether the phone was taken from its owner.
If the theft appears to happen in an unfamiliar place rather than at home, work or on a trusted WiFi network, the feature would also trigger Stolen Device Protection-style restrictions.
The move targets a gap in current defenses: thieves who grab an already unlocked iPhone can still cause damage before existing anti-theft protections fully kick in.
No launch timing was given, but code reviewed by 9to5Mac indicates the feature is under active development.
How will Apple’s new security feature know the difference between a dropped phone and a stolen one?
Can thieves bypass the new snatch-lock by stealing the paired Apple Watch along with the iPhone?
Will Apple's latest security fix deter phone thieves or just create a new challenge for them to overcome?