Apple left anti-snatching protection out of iOS 27, but code found in the iOS 27.2 beta suggests the feature is still in development. Possible lock triggers include sudden acceleration and extended loss of Apple Watch or network connections.
The code refers internally to the feature as “AutoLock,” though that may not be its public name. It also mentions a phone remaining unlocked beyond a set interval as a possible trigger. To limit false alarms, the code points to safeguards for familiar locations such as home or work, biometric authentication, a veto mechanism and a cooldown after repeated automatic locks. The feature is unfinished, so its design and release timing could change.
The article says an automatic lock could make it harder for a thief to access data or erase the phone for resale, while giving its owner time to use Find My to lock it remotely. Apple’s existing Stolen Device Protection uses biometrics to restrict access to settings including Find My, an Apple account and factory reset. The article also says iPhones restart after 72 hours of inactivity, encrypting the device.
