New iPhone Update With Surprise Major Change Is Just Hours Away
Apple is likely to release iOS 26.4 for the iPhone within the next 48 hours – you can read all the details about when here – and it includes a change in device behavior that many users will find a complete surprise. In a significant but welcome change from the previous policy, the Stolen Device Protection feature will be enabled by default for the first time.
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What is Stolen Device Protection?
Stolen Device Protection is a key element for iPhones and will be released in early 2024. Until now, it’s been an optional feature designed to help ensure that if your iPhone is stolen while it’s unlocked, the thief can’t immediately replace your biometrics with their own for Face ID or Touch ID and then gain access to banking apps, for example.
The change means that immediately after the update, your iPhone will need Face ID or Touch ID to access sensitive data like saved passwords or credit card information. There is no option to enter a password if the biometric scan fails at first.
This is a big change and one that many people, including me, have wanted for a long time. I asked all my friends to check if the protection is on. I won’t have to do this anymore.
For years, the passcode has been a last resort for iPhone users. If Face ID didn’t work, for example because you were wearing a mask, you just had to enter your code.
Now, when you’re away from what Apple defines as familiar locations (like home or work), the password option is removed for high-security transactions. This prevents a thief who sees your password from taking over your digital life, but it can catch legitimate users off guard when they try to check the password for the first time, for example at a coffee shop.
iOS 26.4 Release Date
Things can change, but since the Release Candidate arrives on Wednesday, March 18th, general release is almost certain to happen by Wednesday, March 25th. My best guess is it will arrive on Monday, March 23rd.
The update is compatible with all iPhones from iPhone 11 onwards, including the latest iPhone 17, 17 Pro, 17 Pro Max, 17e and iPhone Air.
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