May 27, 2026, 2:22 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
The iPhone already has several security features to protect against theft. However, Apple is apparently working on an additional layer of protection that will allow the device to recognize when it is snatched from a user’s hand. This addresses a previously unresolved issue: If thieves steal an unlocked iPhone, they can cause significant damage.
Automatic Lock After Snatching
Hints about the new feature were found by “9To5Mac” in unspecified software code. This suggests that Apple is actively working on its development. According to the information, the theft detection will use sensors built into the iPhone to recognize a sudden snatching. This includes the accelerometer, which can detect abrupt movements.
If the iPhone detects that it has been snatched from the hand, it will automatically lock. This immediately makes it more difficult for criminals to access apps, accounts, and personal data. Apple is taking cues from Google’s “theft lock screen,” which detects when someone takes an Android device and runs away with it.
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iPhone Better Protected Against Theft
Apple already offers several features against theft and misuse. These include “Find My,” the activation lock, and protection for stolen devices. The latter was introduced with iOS 17.3 and finally activated by default with iOS 26.4. These measures are especially helpful when an iPhone is already locked or later needs to be located and rendered unusable. However, there remains a risk when the device is unlocked.
Although Apple has implemented delays to prevent important changes to the Apple account, thieves can still potentially access sensitive areas quickly on an unlocked device.
Also of interest: Apple warns against charging the iPhone in bed
How the iPhone Detects Theft
In addition to evaluating sensor data, the new feature will check other parameters to determine a theft. For example, measuring the distance to a paired Apple Watch can indicate whether the iPhone is still with its owner.
According to “9To5Mac,” the feature will also consider known Wi-Fi networks and familiar locations, such as the user’s home or workplace, as is already the case with protection for stolen devices. If the iPhone detects a theft in an unfamiliar location, it activates the same rules as the protection for stolen devices in addition to the lock screen. This means, for example, that unlocking with a passcode is disabled, and a delay for account changes is activated.