Apple has made a big move with its latest iOS 18 update. In fact, Apple has introduced a new security feature that extends Activation Lock to individual iPhone parts. This important change, announced earlier this year, is now live. Interestingly, the feature is designed to make it tougher for thieves to profit from stolen iPhones by selling their parts. As part of Apple’s ongoing efforts to keep users safe, this update not only helps reduce iPhone thefts but also adds extra protection for your device. So let’s read on the details of the new extended Apple Activation Lock.
Apple Secures iPhone Parts
You might already be familiar with Apple Activation Lock. Essentially, this feature prevents anyone from using a stolen iPhone. However, Apple has now extended this lock to cover individual iPhone parts with iOS 18. This means the system will recognize stolen components of the phone—like the screen, battery, or motherboard. In addition, the system will alert users, making it harder for thieves to sell those parts. Ultimately, this extra layer of security gives users peace of mind, knowing their phone and its parts are protected.
Cracking Down on Stolen Parts: Apple’s New Strategy
In the past, thieves could make money by selling iPhone parts, even if they couldn’t access the device itself. However, the new update for Apple Activation Lock might end that practice. Now that Apple ties the parts to your account, buyers will receive a notification if they come from a stolen device. This change significantly lowers the resale value of stolen iPhone components, making theft far less lucrative for criminals.
Notifications for Stolen Components
Here’s where it gets interesting: iOS 18 will alert you if a repair shop uses a stolen part to fix your iPhone. Specifically, you’ll receive a notification in your Settings app, informing you that an “Unknown Part” has been installed. You can still use your iPhone by pressing “Cancel,” but the warning will remain, continuously reminding you that something is off about that part. This feature helps you avoid using stolen parts unknowingly. Moreover, such issues can impact future repairs or even reduce the resale value of your phone.
Your Data, Safeguarded
Of course, this isn’t just about protecting parts. The Apple Activation Lock continues to play a crucial role in safeguarding your data. Moreover, the feature makes sure that no one can access your personal and sensitive information without your Apple ID credentials. However, Apple emphasizes that you need to stay extra vigilant with passwords. Unfortunately, some thieves have developed methods to steal iPhones after obtaining the owner’s password, which could potentially allow them to bypass the Activation Lock. That’s why you must implement strong password practices to keep your device fully secure.
What to Expect: iOS 18 and Device Compatibility
If you own an iPhone 12 or later, you’ll be happy to know that Apple has made the updated Activation Lock feature available with iOS 18. In fact, those in the beta program might already have seen it in action. For everyone else, Apple officially released iOS 18 on Monday, 16th September 2024. Looking ahead, it will be compatible with iPhone XR and later models too! Moreover, to fully benefit from these security improvements, Apple recommends that you turn on the iPhone’s Stolen Device Protection feature, which adds even more layers of protection.
In the end, Apple’s move to extend Activation Lock to iPhone parts benefits everyone. It enhances iPhone security and reduces the financial appeal of stealing them. By adding these extra safeguards, Apple makes it harder for thieves to profit while giving users greater peace of mind. With iOS 18, you can be sure that your iPhone—and its parts—are safer than ever.
Future Outlook: Will iPhone Thefts Decrease?
Although the new extended Apple Activation Lock won’t eliminate iPhone thefts immediately, it definitely moves us in the right direction. Thieves and repair shops will need to adjust to these changes over time. Once people catch on, the value of stolen iPhone parts will likely drop. As a result, thieves might find stealing iPhones much less appealing, which is great news for all of us.
