Apple Tests China-Only iPhone Setting to Block Shake-Triggered Ads
Apple is testing a China-specific iPhone setting called Restrict Motion Data that blocks selected apps from accessing the accelerometer and gyroscope. Users speculate it targets ads triggered by phone movement, though Apple has not explicitly linked the feature to that issue.
Apple is testing an iPhone setting for users in China that prevents selected apps from accessing the device’s motion sensors. The Restrict Motion Data option appears in the second beta of iOS 27.2.
The feature blocks apps from using accelerometer and gyroscope data. For now, it appears limited to accounts tied to the mainland China App Store.
Ads triggered by phone movement
Some Chinese apps display “shake-to-open” ads. They can activate when someone merely picks up an iPhone, walks, or rides over a bump in a car, causing an unwanted redirect.
Apple has not explicitly said the setting was introduced in response to that practice. Users in China speculate that the ads explain why the option was added to the beta release.
Apple plans to release iOS 27.2 later this year, but the feature is not expected to become broadly available to iPhone users outside the relevant region.
What we know
- Apple is testing a setting that blocks selected iPhone apps from accessing motion sensors.
- Restrict Motion Data appeared in the second beta of iOS 27.2.
- The option limits access to accelerometer and gyroscope data.
- The feature currently appears tied to mainland China App Store accounts.
Trust: Single source
- The story relies on one publisher. A second independent confirmation has not been established from the cited sources.
- Sources: MacRumors.
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