Apple develops AutoLock feature to automatically lock iPhones during theft

Apple is developing a new security feature internally called “AutoLock,” which was discovered in the iOS 27.2 beta 2 code. The feature is designed to automatically lock an iPhone if it detects a snatch-and-grab theft attempt.

To identify a potential theft, the system uses a multi-signal “voting” mechanism rather than relying on a single sensor. Key indicators include sudden, sharp acceleration consistent with a device being yanked away, loss of connection to a paired Apple Watch, prolonged loss of network connectivity, and the device remaining in an unlocked state for an unusual duration.

To prevent false positives—such as accidental drops or vigorous physical activity—Apple is implementing safeguards. These include the ability for successful biometric authentication (Face ID or Touch ID), recognition of familiar locations, and monitoring foreground app activity to act as a veto against an automatic lock.

While the underlying service is active in the current beta, the actual locking component remains disabled, suggesting Apple is using this phase to collect data and refine the detection logic. The feature is intended to complement existing security like Stolen Device Protection by providing an immediate response at the moment of theft.