Apple released iOS 26’s stable version last September. Since then, the Cupertino-based tech giant has added three incremental software update versions with iOS 26.3 landing earlier this month. Now, the iOS 26.4 Beta 1 is here for developers with a security-focussed feature called Stolen Device Protection. To jog your memory, Apple had introduced this feature way back in 2024.
Stolen Device Protection will be enabled by default on iPhones
Previously, Apple gave users the option to activate or disable the theft protection feature on iPhones. Now, this will be enabled by default on all iPhones running on iOS 26.4 as per MacRumours.
The stolen device protection adds an extra security layer in the form of biometric authentication in key features like Face ID, accessing Apple ID, credit cards, lost mode, using payment methods etc.
There is no alternative option like a passcode to access these features in case your iPhone is stolen. This prevents the perpetrator, who knows these details, from opening certain apps and making changes to your device.
There’s also security delay for certain changes such as updating your Apple account password. It now requires a one-hour wait and then an additional Face ID or Touch ID verification. This gives owners the time to mark their device as lost and ensure that their Apple account is safe.
How to enable Stolen Device Protection on iPhones
On iOS 17.3 and above, follow the steps listed below.
Step 1: Open Settings app on iPhone
Step 2: Navigate to Face ID and passcode
Step 3: Scroll down to Stolen Device Protection
Steo 4: Tap to turn on the feature
Apple’s support documentation page says that biometric authentication and security delay are not required when your iPhone is in a familiar location like home, work, or places where you use your phone regularly. These can, of course, be enabled. The feature will work and offer protection when you are out and about.
ALSO READ: How to enable Stolen Device Protection on your iPhone, and why you should
iOS 26.4 stable version is expected to be released in the near future. It is also expected to pack more features. Stay tuned to Unboxed by Croma to know more.
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Viraj Gawde
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