Individual part lock against theft: Apple nails components from iOS 18 onwards
Apple is introducing new security functions with the new iPhone operating system. Hobbyists can no longer use all components.
(Image: Apple)
With today's release of iOS 18, Apple will also introduce a controversial new feature that should ensure that stolen iPhones can no longer be so easily cannibalized. It is now officially permitted to use used original parts for iPhone repairs. At the same time, however, measures are also being taken to make it impossible to install them if it is known that they come from stolen devices. The well-known iOS activation lock will also be extended to components – at least some central –.
"Innovations in the areas of product design and manufacturing"
"If a device under repair determines that a supported part is from another device with Activation Lock or Lost Mode enabled, the calibration capabilities for that part will be restricted," Apple described back in April. Apple's teams have been "innovating in product design and manufacturing" over the past two years "to support repairs with used Apple parts that do not compromise user safety, security or privacy".
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With iOS 18, individual iPhone components will receive a special serial number that is linked to the user's Apple ID (in future: Apple Account). The components affected by this include, in particular, security-relevant components such as the Face ID and Touch ID sensors for biometrics. However, other central parts such as the battery, camera, display and touchscreen – are also calibrated. The function was also tested during the beta phase of iOS 18. If calibration is not possible, the components may not work correctly and a warning will appear for the user.
Function works like the activation lock
Apple is also planning to rely on the activation lock or "Lost" mode for implementation. This allows components to be marked as stolen or at least "missing" in order to restrict calibration. A new "Parts and Service History" in the system settings should show which components have been installed. The new function is the first official way for Apple to allow used components to be reused without calibration problems.
This is also open to independent workshops. With iOS 17.5 in May, Apple last allowed "Where is?" not to be switched off even during repairs in order to allow devices to continue to be tracked.
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