Apple has rolled out its new iOS 17.3 update for iPhone users globally. An equivalent version, iPadOS 17.3, is also available for iPad and launching alongside. Per usual, if you have an eligible iPhone or iPad, the updates should be out for you. For older iPhones and iPads, that are not supported, Apple also has also released iOS 15.8.1 and iOS 16.7.5 so they can keep up against buds and attacks.
As expected, the most stand-out feature in the log sheet is Apple’s new stolen device protection feature. With it, the company is putting tighter curbs against people who might steal your device and have your passcode, from penetrating your iPhone and iPad.
The loophole, which now feels obvious, came under spotlight after the Wall Street Journal reported it, with actual accounts of thieves who would frequent bars to lure unsuspecting iPhone users into giving their passcode to them, either directly or indirectly. They would memorise this four- or six- digit code, then steal their iPhone. Upon possession, they could do anything and everything with the device from tampering with settings to accessing sensitive data like Apple ID, passwords and banking information stored on Keychain, since the passcode gave them the authority.
Stolen device protection is a solution to fix the problem. When enabled from settings, it will act as an additional layer of security, asking anybody who has access to your device to use your Face ID or Touch ID to do things like erase the iPhone completely, or to access your iCloud Keychain.
If someone plans to do something more elaborate like say change your Apple ID or turn off Find My, Apple will ask them to wait for an hour or so after authenticating, then it will need them to re-authenticate using Face ID or Touch ID again to make those changes. Apple notes that in areas like home and work which you frequent the most, there should be no delay.
Other notable features incoming with iOS 17.3 are collaborative playlists with friends on Apple Music including ability to add emoji reactions to tracks and hotel support on AirPlay so you can stream directly to your room TV.
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