According to 9to5Mac, this system will allow Apple Store employees to wirelessly update iPhone software even while the phone is still in the retail box using a device that resembles a spacer.
The new system allows iPhones to have their software updated right before opening the box
In the news Power On Latest, Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman said that the new system will begin to be widely deployed at Apple stores in the US in April and cover all US stores by "early summer". This process has been tested in select Apple stores since late 4.
Mr. Gurman first reported about this system in October 10.2023 and it was noted to appear in the iOS 17.2 update. The technology focuses on a “pad-like device that stores can place iPhone boxes on top of.” The system can automatically power on the phone, update the software, before turning it off again without opening the box.
Mr. Gurman said the system can use MagSafe and other wireless technologies to power the iPhone without opening the case. It will then download and install the new software before powering off the phone.
This change means that people who buy a new iPhone from an Apple Store may not have to immediately update their device after taking it out of the box. Instead, the Apple Store will update devices when a new iOS version is released.
Currently, iPhones are shipped from the factory with whatever version of iOS is available at the time. This means millions of iPhones are now running a fairly old version of iOS when they reach customers.
