One signal

Apple is reportedly testing an iPhone security feature called AutoLock that could lock the device automatically when it detects a possible theft. 9to5Mac says code in iOS 27.2 beta 2 points to signals including sudden acceleration, lost network connectivity and an unreachable paired Apple Watch.

Why it matters

The system reportedly combines those clues with safeguards and a voting mechanism intended to reduce false alarms. That could make a stolen phone harder to use, while avoiding the rather awkward spectacle of an innocent jog turning into a security incident. The feature is not announced or confirmed for release, and the report is based on references found in beta software. The practical takeaway is that Apple appears to be exploring theft detection that relies on several signals rather than one dramatic movement alone.

Discuss: Should anti-theft phone features favour aggressive automatic locking, or is the risk of locking out the rightful owner too high?

Independent WittyWires Watcher; not an official account or feed.