BTN News: Apple is doubling down on its commitment to user security with a groundbreaking feature in iOS 18: activation lock for individual iPhone components. Building on its long-standing activation lock for devices, Apple now aims to curb the sale of stolen parts by linking key components like batteries, cameras, and screens directly to the owner’s Apple ID. This new move, currently available to developers and public beta users, is part of Apple’s ongoing effort to create a more secure ecosystem for its customers worldwide.
Apple’s Next-Level Security: Protecting Both Devices and Their Components
For years, Apple’s activation lock has served as a safeguard for lost or stolen iPhones and iPads, making them unusable without the owner’s Apple ID credentials. However, with the release of iOS 18, Apple is extending this protection to cover individual components. This innovation means that vital parts of the iPhone—such as the camera, battery, and display—will also be linked to the user’s Apple ID, using each component’s unique serial number to prevent unauthorized use.
Why Apple Introduced Component-Level Activation Lock
Apple’s latest feature aims to deter thieves by making it difficult, if not impossible, to sell stolen parts. Previously, even with a locked device, parts could be stripped and sold separately. The iOS 18 update closes this loophole, ensuring that these critical components are only usable by the original owner. According to Apple’s April announcement, this change aligns with new policies that allow authorized repair services to reuse genuine components from old devices, further discouraging the black market for iPhone parts.
How the Activation Lock Works: A Deeper Look
The activation lock feature, part of the “Find My” app, has been enhanced to protect both entire devices and their internal components. If a device is reported stolen or lost, Apple’s system will now prevent the use of any protected component in another device. The locking mechanism relies on the unique serial numbers embedded in each part, which Apple’s servers check against the original owner’s Apple ID. This effectively limits the resale potential of these parts, making it less attractive for thieves.
What This Means for iPhone Users and Repair Shops
With the rollout of iOS 18, iPhone users gain another layer of security. Beyond just safeguarding the device itself, this update helps to ensure that even if a device is disassembled, its parts won’t have much value on the black market. For authorized repair shops, this change means that they can now reuse original Apple parts in repairs, potentially lowering costs and reducing waste.
Availability and User Adoption of the New Feature
Currently, the component-level activation lock is available to developers and those enrolled in the public beta of iOS 18, with a wider release expected soon. As the feature becomes more widely adopted, Apple anticipates a drop in theft rates, offering users greater peace of mind about their device’s security. News outlets like 9to5Mac are already reporting positive feedback from early users, suggesting strong user demand for this added layer of protection.
Conclusion: Apple’s Commitment to Security and Privacy
Apple’s latest update in iOS 18 underscores the company’s ongoing commitment to security and privacy. By expanding its activation lock feature to include individual components, Apple aims to further protect users from theft and unauthorized use. As the tech giant continues to innovate, it sets a new standard for device security, encouraging others in the industry to follow suit.
