Janice R. Andrews
Today, Apple released iOS 17.3, together with iPadOS 17.3, watchOS 10.3, and macOS Sonoma 14.3, as part of a significant software update release. Although the iOS version doesn’t have many revolutionary features, it does include a key security feature called Stolen Device Protection, which is meant to protect your personal information in the terrible case that it is stolen.
What is Protection Against Stolen Devices?
Without a question, the Stolen Device Protection function is the standout feature in iOS 17.3. This function, in contrast to conventional tracking systems, is intended to stop illegal access to your private data rather than finding a lost or stolen iPhone or iPad. This cutting-edge security technique adds another line of protection against any hacker data intrusions.
How Does Device Protection Against Theft Operate?
Enforcing Face ID or Touch ID access will effectively shut off any unauthorized users in the event that your stolen iPhone or iPad running iOS 17.3 is recovered. Interestingly, this security precaution works even if the hacker manages to get their hands on your passcode. Before permitting any passcode modifications, the system automatically imposes a one-hour security delay, particularly if the device is detected in an unknown place. Stolen Device Protection increases the bar and makes it more harder for criminals to misuse your personal data, even if it could not completely stop them.
Extra Functionalities in iOS 17.3
In addition to protecting against stolen devices, the update brings in a number of significant new features, such as:
- Apple Music Collaborative Playlists: The social and interactive features of music streaming have been improved with the ability for users to build joint playlists.
- Hotel AirPlay Support: Experience seamless connectivity in hotel settings with AirPlay, guaranteeing a more comfortable and adaptable audio-visual experience.
- Enhanced Crash Identification: Improved crash detection capabilities are part of the upgrade, which makes the system operate more consistently and steadily overall.
- Wallpapers for Black History Month: For Black History Month, Apple is introducing new wallpapers to highlight inclusivity and diversity.
Installation and Compatibility
Users must possess an iPhone Xs, iPhone Xs Max, iPhone XR (2018), or any variation of iPhone 11, iPhone 12, iPhone 13, iPhone 14, and iPhone 15 in order to benefit from Stolen Device Protection and the other features in iOS 17.3. Furthermore, third- and second-generation iPhone SE devices support the capability. Many models are compatible with iPadOS 17.3, including iPad Mini fifth-generation and up, normal iPad sixth-generation and up, iPad Air third-generation and up, and all iPad Pro devices.
Take these easy steps to enable the Stolen Device Protection:
- Navigate to your device’s Settings menu.
- Select “Face ID & Passcode.”
- Select “Stolen Device Protection” by scrolling down.
- Turn the switch from “Off” to “On.”
Users may easily increase the security of their devices without any hassles as no additional configuration is needed.
Final Thoughts
Even if iOS 17.3 isn’t a very groundbreaking update, the addition of Stolen Device Protection gives Apple devices an extra degree of security. Now that their personal information is more securely shielded from theft and unwanted access, users can rest easy. As usual, to take advantage of these important security improvements, make sure your device is compatible and keep up with the most recent system upgrades.
