Apple has figured out a way to update iPhones that are still in the packaging, with a system that allows iOS updates to be applied to unopened smartphones that are still in the Apple Store. One of the problems with purchasing hardware is that consumers often find that their devices require software updates right out of the box. This also applies to devices that are just coming to market, such as the iPhone 15, which require an iOS 17.0.1 update before the hardware actually ships.
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Mark Gurman wrote in the "PowerOn" newsletter for Bloomberg that Apple has a system for updating the iPhone's operating system before it is sold. Best of all, it can be updated without opening the box.
The system consists of a "mat-like device" on which a store employee places an unopened iPhone box to trigger the update. The pad wirelessly turns the iPhone on, runs a software update, and then turns off again.
While the report only mentions iPhones, the idea could potentially extend to other Apple products.
It is said that consumers can enjoy the benefits of this system in Apple stores before the end of 2023.