Apple developing new iPhone anti-theft feature: Here’s how it will work

Apple is reportedly planning to introduce a new iPhone security feature that would automatically lock the device when it detects that it has been stolen or snatched from a user’s hand. Over the years, Apple has steadily improved iPhone anti-theft protections with features such as Find My iPhone, Activation Lock, and Stolen Device Protection.

However, these measures can still prove ineffective if a thief grabs the phone while it is already unlocked. The new feature is expected to automatically lock the iPhone once the system detects that it has been suddenly snatched away, similar to Android’s Theft Detection Lock.

The theft detection system will reportedly rely on signals from multiple sensors inside the phone, including accelerometers that can detect sudden shifts in movement and momentum. Once the onboard systems confirm suspicious activity consistent with theft, the iPhone would automatically lock itself.

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The feature is also expected to work alongside an Apple Watch to determine how far the iPhone may have been taken from its owner. In addition, the system would reportedly apply the same rules used by Stolen Device Protection, checking whether the iPhone is connected to a familiar Wi-Fi network or located in a trusted place such as a home or workplace.

If the conditions suggest that the iPhone has been taken to an unfamiliar location away from its owner, the feature could lock the device and restrict access to sensitive areas already protected under Stolen Device Protection.

There is currently no official word on when the feature may be announced.