Since iOS 18.1, an iPhone that remains locked for 72 hours automatically restarts to better protect the user's data. This feature, known as the "inactivity restart," is designed to enhance security by returning the device to a state where certain encryption keys are only accessible after the user enters their passcode for the first time. This process is called the Before First Unlock (BFU) state, and once the user enters their passcode, the device shifts to the After First Unlock (AFU) state, where more data is accessible for analysis. For law enforcement, this can be problematic, as the 72-hour period might pass during the transport of a seized device or while waiting for judicial approval. A Canadian company called Magnet Forensics claims to have developed a method to preserve the AFU state even after the automatic restart. This would allow investigators to analyze the device more effectively, as the data remains in a more accessible configuration for a longer period. However, the company's tools do not guarantee instant access to all data or unlock the device immediately. Instead, they aim to maintain the conditions that make data analysis easier, such as preserving cached location information or recently deleted data. These capabilities, however, are based on the company's claims and have not been independently verified. The exact method Magnet Forensics uses to maintain the AFU state after a restart is not disclosed. Researchers speculate that it might involve manipulating the device's clock or disabling mechanisms that cause data to expire after a certain time. However, these theories cannot be confirmed with the limited information available. The documentation related to this method appears to date back to early 2025, making it unclear when these functions were first used or whether they remain effective on the latest iOS versions. Apple and Magnet Forensics have not responded to inquiries from 404 Media, a U.S. news outlet, regarding these claims. This lack of response leaves many questions unanswered about the effectiveness and ethical implications of such tools. While the technology could aid law enforcement in investigations, it also raises concerns about privacy and the balance between security and accessibility of data.