Apple’s new patent changes authentication settings based on location

A patent application published on Thursday reveals an Apple solution that dynamically changes a mobile device’s user interface, security levels and other behaviors based on its location, whether it be at the office or in a user’s home. In a filing with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office titled “Location-sensitive security levels and setting profiles based on detected location,” Apple describes a system in which the hardware and software of a mobile device work together to automatically adjust various UI and device behavior settings. More importantly, the invention delivers a mechanism to adjust iPhone access levels based on its location, meaning different tolerances can be applied based on the relative security of a location. For example, a user may only need a simple four-digit passcode to unlock a device while at home, but authentication via Apple’s Touch ID when in public areas like a shopping mall. Apple notes that any suitable means can be used to determine location — called a “location aspect” — including cellular tower data, recognition of a home Wi-Fi network, GPS data or even proximity to other cellphones, among others. At least two location aspects are required for the system to function with any precision.