The impending release of Apple iOS 17.3 brings a remarkable feature dubbed Stolen Device Protection. Expected for a general rollout within two weeks, the recent beta version stumbled upon an unexpected hitch.

If you've downloaded the latest beta, you might have encountered a snag, particularly a problematic boot loop issue impacting iPhones.

iOS 17.3 Beta 2 Update Causes iPhone Bricking

Though not universal, iOS 17.3 beta 2 has stuck some iPhone users stuck in an endless boot loop after installation. While common in beta software, this glitch poses a considerable inconvenience if your phone gets bricked.

Reports indicated this problem spans iPhone models from the iPhone 12 series onwards.

The anticipated public beta release for iOS 17.3 might face delays due to this glitch. If the issue persists widely, there's a possibility of delaying the public beta or even withdrawing the developer beta until a solution is devised.

A Fix For Some of the Beta Testers Experienced the Bricking

The recent iOS 17.3 beta 2 rollout has hit some iPhone users hard, leading to bricked devices.

Owner of MacStories, Federico Viticci's iPhone and several others ended up effectively bricking after the update attempt, sparking concerns on platforms like Mastodon, Reddit, and more. Brazil-based Mac and iOS developer Guilherme Rambo came to the rescue with a suggested solution: downloading the iOS 17.3 beta 1 IPSW on a Mac and restoring the device using Finder or iMazing.

This method, outlined as data-preserving by iMazing, involves navigating recovery mode.

Amidst the chaos, a commenter with the username Carol Danvers cautioned against beta installation for inexperienced users, emphasizing the unpredictability of beta software. While specific iPhone 14 and 15 users reported issues, some managed a smooth update process.

The takeaway advice amidst this beta hiccup: exercising caution with iOS 17.3 beta two might be prudent. Apple is likely to address these concerns, signaling the inherent unpredictability of beta versions and their potential for glitches.

iOS 17.3 May Withdraw Improvements for the Meantime

The initial release of iOS 17.3 beta arrived swiftly after the rollout of iOS 17.2, focusing primarily on rectifying bugs and enhancing security measures. Among the expected features are Stolen Device Protection and Apple Music collaborative playlists, a feature previously seen in iOS 17.2 betas but excluded from the final version.

The newly introduced Stolen Device Protection feature aims to enhance iPhone security by restricting iCloud password changes solely via the device passcode. The update enables Face ID authentication, offering secure access to passwords and accounts.

However, iOS 17.3 beta two has encountered issues, suggesting it may be withdrawn for improvements. If already installed and experiencing boot loop problems, users will likely need to conduct a factory reset by connecting the iPhone to a Mac using a USB-C cable, initiating a restoration from the latest backup via the Finder's General and Restore options.

Always proceed with caution when dealing with beta software like iOS 17.3. While the Stolen Device Protection feature is a much-awaited addition, the recent beta has caused issues like boot loops. Apple will likely address these, but be mindful of potential glitches in beta versions.