Apple introduces restrictions for iPhones after repair: Details

iOS 18 adds Activation Lock to iPhone parts

As noted by BetaProfiles, the iOS 18 RC (Release Candidate) build, released for developers and public beta testers on Monday, includes Activation Lock for iPhone parts.

The feature, as previously described by Apple, links your account not only to your iPhone but also to components such as the battery, cameras, and display, based on their individual serial numbers.

Apple's goal is to put an end to the market for parts from stolen iPhones. Since iPhones have Activation Lock, most stolen phones are sold on the black market for parts that are still quite valuable.

Now, when an iPhone detects a used part, it will require the Apple ID password of the original device’s owner.

"Apple will also extend its popular Activation Lock feature to iPhone parts in order to deter stolen iPhones from being disassembled for parts. Requested by customers and law enforcement officials, the feature was designed to limit iPhone theft by blocking a lost or stolen iPhone from being reactivated," the Apple states.

The company stated that if a device being repaired detects that a supported part came from another device with Activation Lock or Lost Mode enabled, calibration options for that part will be restricted.

Some people have attempted to exchange parts between iPhones running iOS 18.0 RC, and indeed, the device requests the Apple ID password to unlock and verify the used component.

While some will always attempt to bypass Apple’s security measures, it’s reassuring to see the company investing in preventing iPhone theft.

iOS 18 will be released to the public on Monday, September 16, and requires an iPhone XR or newer. Note that Activation Lock for parts is currently applicable only to iPhones and will not be available for iPads with iPadOS 18.