Apple iOS 17.3 Release Date and Features

Apple is working on a new software release iOS 17.3 for iPhones as it promises to bring new safety measures and improvements for iPhone users.

Unlike past software updates, iOS 17.3 would focus majorly on device protection with a new feature called Stolen Device Protection.

This feature takes a simple approach for iPhones that are the target of thieves. A recent WSJ article explained how a thief stole and compromised iPhones to wipe cash from linked bank accounts.

In such a situation, Stolen Device Protection could bring some changes that might help an iPhone user to an extent.

Once enabled, the stolen device feature adds a new layer of security when the iPhone is “away from familiar locations” such as home and work.

Specifically, the feature doesn’t allow an unknown person, with passcode access, to make key changes in device authentication or access payment details.

With Stolen Device Protection, the iPhone would not allow changes or access to iCloud Keychain, Apple Card, Resetting iPhone, and more.

The aim behind this feature is to bust instant changes to the iPhone. If an unknown person has access to your passcode + your iPhone, the phone will require an existing Face ID or Touch ID to authenticate the user and change the device’s settings.

Interestingly, the iPhone won’t fallback to the passcode and must authenticate with Face ID or Touch ID.

To turn off this setting, the system will require a one-hour security delay, a timer will start for that duration and you won’t be able to change authentication settings until the timer runs out. For example, the device will show you a notification screen each time the user accesses to change face ID.

Aside from these sensitive options, the user will have full control over the existing changes.

Note: The user will require an existing FACE ID to disable Stolen Device Protection and start the security delay.

Release Date:

This feature has a lot of improvements to the entire iPhone ecosystem but it’s currently under beta version.

Some speculations from the Apple community suggest that the stable iOS 17.3 release will happen somewhere in January or early February.

There could also be additional changes and improvements landing with this software release.