Apple has recently rolled out iOS 17.3, the latest update to its renowned mobile operating system. This release introduces a range of new features, enhancements, and important security measures to enhance the user experience and protect device owners. iOS 17.3 was released yesterday, January 22, 2024. As with previous iOS updates, it was made available as an over-the-air update, allowing users to conveniently download and install it directly on their compatible devices.

iOS 17.3 is compatible with a wide range of iPhone models. The supported devices include:

iPhone 13 Pro Max
iPhone 13 Pro
iPhone 13
iPhone 13 mini
iPhone 12 Pro Max
iPhone 12 Pro
iPhone 12
iPhone 12 mini
iPhone SE (2nd generation)
iPhone 11 Pro Max
iPhone 11 Pro
iPhone 11
iPhone XS Max
iPhone XS
iPhone XR
iPhone X
iPhone 8 Plus
iPhone 8
iPhone 7 Plus
iPhone 7

Stolen Device Protection:
One of the notable additions in iOS 17.3 is the Stolen Device Protection feature. This feature aims to provide added security and peace of mind to iPhone users in the unfortunate event that their device is stolen.

Stolen Device Protection works by leveraging the Find My app and Apple's vast network of devices to help locate and recover stolen iPhones. When a user activates the feature, their device is marked as stolen within the Find My network. This information is then securely shared with other Apple devices worldwide, allowing them to assist in tracking the stolen device's location.

In addition to location tracking, Stolen Device Protection also introduces Activation Lock, which prevents unauthorized individuals from using or selling a stolen iPhone. Activation Lock ensures that the device remains linked to the original owner's Apple ID, requiring the owner's credentials to disable the feature and reactivate the device.

Activating Stolen Device Protection:
To activate Stolen Device Protection on iOS 17.3, follow these steps: Go to Settings and select Face ID & Passcode. Swipe down the screen to the section for Stolen Device Protection and tap the link for Turn On Protection.

Security Delay:
Stolen Device Protection also introduces a security delay, which may require you to wait for an hour before making changes to critical security settings or your Apple ID. If your iPhone is not in a familiar location, you must authenticate with Face ID or Touch ID, wait for the security delay to end, and then authenticate again to update settings such as:

1. Changing your Apple ID password.
2. Signing out of your Apple ID.
3. Updating Apple ID account security settings, such as adding or removing a trusted device, Recovery Key, or Recovery Contact.
4. Adding or removing Face ID or Touch ID.
5. Changing your iPhone passcode.
6. Resetting all settings.
7. Turning off Find My.
8. Turning off Stolen Device Protection.

Early Security Delay End:
Your device may end the security delay early once it detects that you have arrived at a familiar location. This allows you to resume normal usage without delay.