Apple introduced a new feature to deter theft in iOS 7. Called Activation Lock, it can remotely lock and wipe an iPhone when it’s reported stolen. It’s then impossible to do anything with the device unless the user enters the Apple ID and Password used for the wipe and erase. It’s a simple concept that hopefully will be exploit-free, to ensure its effectiveness. Previously the most users could do was block the device for use on carriers networks, but since stolen phones are often moved abroad, it wasn’t very effective.
Samsung has tried to do a similar feature, but has been told by U.S. carriers that it can’t bundle the third-party app with the device. One of the main reasons for doing so is the fee: $29.99 a year would make it compete against the insurance offerings from carriers. Since Samsung isn’t as heavily integrated with its software as Apple, the company has to get carriers to agree to bundle the app.
Presently the closest offered on most Android phones is Android Device Manager, a service from Google that’ll lock and wipe your phone. This, however, is not as secure as Apple’s offering.
