iOS 17.5 to Introduce ‘Repair State’ Feature, Maintains Find My Functionality During Repairs, Report Says

iOS 17.5 Beta 4 Code Reveals New ‘Repair State’ Feature, Report Notes

Apple is reportedly developing a new feature called Repair State, allowing iPhone users to maintain Find My functionality even when their device is sent for repair. This feature aims to address concerns about turning off Find My during repairs, which can compromise device security. The discovery of this feature came with the latest iOS 17.5 beta update, with the global stable version expected to release later this month.

9to5Mac spotted the Repair State feature within the codes of iOS 17.5 beta 4, released recently for Beta Programme participants. Although partially functional for beta testers, it indicates Apple’s efforts to enable device tracking even during repair processes.

Currently, Apple mandates users to disable Find My before sending their iPhone for repair. This requirement is also mentioned in Apple’s Support Page, stating that failure to turn off Find My may hinder device servicing. The intention is to ensure that only the device owner can authorize repairs. However, recent updates have made complying with this rule more challenging.

The introduction of Repair State suggests Apple’s acknowledgment of the inconvenience caused by disabling Find My during repairs. This feature is likely designed to provide users with peace of mind regarding the security of their devices while undergoing service.

Apple is reportedly working on a new feature that will allow iPhone users to keep Find My on even when they send their phone for repair. This new feature is being called Repair State, and it is said to offer a workaround to turning the device tracking feature off, which can reduce the security of the device. This feature was spotted with the latest iOS 17.5 beta update. The global stable version of the operating system could arrive later this month.

The feature was spotted by 9to5Mac within the codes of the iOS 17.5 beta 4, which rolled out on Tuesday for users who have enrolled in the Beta Programme. This feature is said to be partially working for beta testers. As per the report, the Repair State feature was likely added to allow users to track their device even when it is being repaired.

At present, Apple requires users to turn off Find My when handing in the iPhone for repair. The guideline is also mentioned in Apple’s Support Page which states, “To prevent anyone else from getting service for your device without your knowledge, Apple might not be able to service your device if Find My isn’t turned off.” The idea behind the rule is to make sure the person who is handing in the phone is indeed the owner of the phone as well. However, doing this has become trickier with recent updates by the tech giant.