Apple’s Stolen Device Protection now enforces biometric authentication for highly sensitive actions, introducing a one-hour security delay and two biometric checks for tasks like changing Apple ID password, updating security settings, altering iPhone passcode, adding or removing Face ID/Touch ID, turning Find My off, or disabling Stolen Device Protection.

When the protection is on, critical operations such as accessing saved passwords, applying for or viewing an Apple Card, erasing data, or setting up a new device require biometric verification with no passcode fallback.

The system adds an extra layer of protection by requiring Face ID or Touch ID to access sensitive data and actions on the iPhone.

The article from today notes the ongoing rollout plans for iOS 26.4 as it moves toward broader availability.

In iOS 17.3 the feature was opt-in; with iOS 26.4 it will auto‑enable, yet users can still disable it if they choose.

Appleosophy invites reader engagement and provides links to developer programs, beta updates, and additional Apple news coverage.

In iOS 26.4, Stolen Device Protection is enabled by default for all users, expanding protections against theft.

MacRumors reports that the first developer beta of iOS 26.4 automatically enables Stolen Device Protection if it wasn’t previously active.

This marks a shift from opt-in to automatic activation for Stolen Device Protection across iPhones.

There is an optional security delay bypass when connected to familiar Wi‑Fi networks, potentially easing use at home.

The protection does not prevent theft itself but aims to limit post-theft access by blocking changes to critical security and financial settings.

Bloomberg reports delays in the iOS 26.4 Siri revamp due to internal testing, with key features possibly slipping to iOS 26.5 or 27.