Abstract created by Sensible Solutions AI
In abstract:
- Tech Advisor reviews that Apple is creating a theft detection lock function for iPhones, much like Android 15’s anti-snatch expertise that robotically secures gadgets when stolen.
- The system makes use of iPhone’s accelerometer knowledge and Apple Watch proximity to detect snatching motions, then applies area-based entry restrictions and integrates with present Stolen Machine Safety.
- This safety enhancement might launch with iOS 27 and iPhone 18, although the timeline stays unsure based on code noticed by builders.
Apple is reportedly planning on pinching certainly one of Android’s greatest security measures for the iPhone.
With regards to locking down your knowledge and holding your cellphone secure, Apple is mostly forward of the sport. The likes of Discover My, Activation Lock, and Stolen Machine Safety are main the trade.
Nonetheless, one space the place Android has stolen a march in recent times is with bodily gadget safety. Extra particularly, ever since 2024’s Android 15, Google’s cellular platform has been in a position to detect when your cellphone is snatched out of your hand and lock your cellphone up tight.
Google calls this handy function Theft Detection Lock (take a look at our rundown right here), and Apple is reportedly seeking to emulate it in a future model of iOS.
9to5Mac has noticed code (although it doesn’t present any additional context) that means Apple is working by itself anti-snatch system.

Foundry
How Apple’s Theft Detection Lock will work
The function will depend on various alerts, together with the iPhone’s accelerometer and its distance to a linked Apple Watch, to detect when your cellphone is snatched.
It’ll additionally keep in mind the standard elements that apply to Apple’s Stolen Machine Safety function, together with whether or not the iPhone is on a well-recognized WiFi community or in a well-recognized location.
Speaking of Apple’s Stolen Machine Safety, the brand new system would apply the identical area-based entry restrictions when an iPhone is locked down.
The report isn’t positive when Apple will implement this theft-protection function into iOS, however we’ll be holding a watch out for it when iOS 27 rolls round.
After an anticipated reveal at Apple’s WWDC developer convention in June, look out for iOS 27 alongside the iPhone 18 and first-ever foldable iPhone later this yr.
Will a model of Theft Detection Lock be included? Solely time will inform.

