This New iPhone Feature Is a Lifesaver if Your Phone is Stolen

Having your phone stolen is never an enjoyable experience. On top of being left with no device to conduct basic technological functions in today's world, your security and finances could be at risk if thieves are able to access your accounts. Luckily for iPhone users, this worry is going to become a thing of the past. 

iOS 17.3, the latest edition of the most recent software update which is slated for release sometime later this month, includes a helpful new feature that could be a lifesaver in situations like these. By activating Stolen Device Mode, you can stop criminals in their tracks and prevent them from doing additional harm by accessing your passwords, changing your Apple ID credentials, or turning off Lost Mode without using Face ID or Touch ID. If they try to change your Apple ID in an untrusted location, they'll face a one-hour security delay. 

The addition builds on the already-existing Lost Mode, which allows users to lock their devices remotely and display messages on the screen, such as a number to call to return it. Activating the new security feature is easy; just go to Face ID & Passcode in your phone's Settings and toggle on Stolen Device Protection. 

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But stolen Device Protection isn't the only exciting development coming to iPhone with iOS 17.3. It will also bring collaborative playlists back to Apple Music, in addition to usual security fixes that are standard with iOS updates. 

Still, if you stay ready, you ain't got to get ready. So keep a tight grip on your phone and hopefully you'll never have to use Stolen Device Mode in the first place.