Apple is preparing to release a new device we won't be able to buy, but new iPhone owners will certainly appreciate.
As Bloomberg reports, Apple developed a proprietary pad-like device for distribution to its retail stores. The pad has one purpose: to update the version of iOS on brand new iPhones without needing to open the packaging.
The pad promises to remove some of the frustration for new iPhone owners who boot their smartphone for the first time only to discover it requires a software update. Using this new system, before the phone is sold, a member of the Apple retail store team can place the unopened phone on the pad which wirelessly turns on the phone inside, allows the iOS update to install, and then the phone turns off again.
Arguably, the only downside to this system seems to be your new iPhone will have less charge left in the battery when you do open it, but then you'd use the same amount of battery applying the update manually at home.
According to The New York Times, it takes on average three days for an iPhone made in China to reach an Apple retail store in the US. As with the recent launch of the iPhone 15 and iOS 17, that's more than enough time for Apple to release an iOS update. It also means that if Apple fixes a serious problem using an iOS update, such as the recent iPhone 15 Pro overheating issue, it can make sure no new iPhones are sold at retail without the fix in place.
The new pads are expected to reach Apple's retail stores before the end of the year, so look out for one if you're buying an iPhone in time for the holidays. I'd recommend holding fire on purchasing an iPhone 15 Pro, though, due to the recent concerns over screen burn-in.
