With iOS 18, Apple introduced a feature that causes the iPhone to reboot every three days, security researchers have confirmed (via TechCrunch). In

Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) covertly inserted a new security feature in iOS 18.1 that automatically prompts iPhones to reboot after 72 hours of inactivity. The new feature, dubbed "inactivity reboot," was first reported by 404 Media.

Apple’s new iPhone software comes with a novel security feature that reboots the phone if it’s not unlocked for 72 hours, according to security researchers. Last week, 404 Media reported that law enforcement officers and forensic experts were concerned that some iPhones were rebooting themselves under mysterious circumstances,

Media reported last week that some iPhones in the possession of law enforcement were mysteriously rebooting, making it more difficult for forensic experts to break

However, the explanation is actually much simpler. Referring to the feature as an "inactivity reboot," AppleInsider says that this reboot timer isn't based on network connectivity or the phone's charge. Rather, the reboot simply occurs after a specific length of time -- around 96 hours.

Apple's iOS 18.1 auto-reboot feature locks iPhones after four days, blocking easy access, but at the same time, frustrating law enforcement in forensic probes.

Apple’s new ‘inactivity reboot’ feature in iOS 18.1 disrupts forensic access, stirring frustration among US law enforcement and sparking privacy debates.

Apple (AAPL, Financials) has introduced a covert security feature in its iOS 18.1 update that triggers iPhones to reboot automatically after 72 hours of inactivity, a measure aimed at enhancing data protection.