iOS 27.2 beta 2 adds a new “Restrict Motion Data” setting for iPhone users in mainland China. It lets users prevent individual apps from accessing motion sensor data.
The setting blocks access to the iPhone’s accelerometer and gyroscope. That could stop apps from detecting when the phone is being moved, including movement that can trigger shake-to-open ads.
How Restrict Motion Data Works
The new option appears in Settings and lets users add individual apps to a restricted list. Apps on that list cannot access motion data from the iPhone.
The accelerometer detects changes in the phone’s movement and position, while the gyroscope tracks rotation and orientation. Apps can use this information for features that respond to how the iPhone is moved.
Restricting access prevents a selected app from using those sensors. This does not disable the sensors for the entire iPhone or prevent other apps from accessing them.
It Can Block Shake-To-Open Ads
Some Chinese apps use shake-to-open ads that respond when an iPhone is moved. The ad can be triggered simply by picking up the phone, walking with it or moving around in a car.
This can result in an unwanted redirect or open another app even though the user did not intentionally tap the advertisement.
Because these ads rely on motion data to detect movement, blocking an app’s access to the accelerometer and gyroscope could prevent that trigger from working.
Apple has not said that the new setting was created specifically to stop shake-to-open ads. Users in China have connected the feature with the advertising problem based on how the setting works.
Why The China Limitation Matters
“Restrict Motion Data” currently appears to be tied to mainland China App Store accounts in iOS 27.2 beta 2.
That means iPhone users in other regions may not see the option when installing the beta. Apple has also not indicated that the feature will expand to other markets.
The regional limitation is notable because shake-to-open advertising has been particularly associated with Chinese mobile apps. For now, Apple appears to be testing the control specifically in that market.
iOS 27.2 Is Still In Beta
The Restrict Motion Data option is part of iOS 27.2 beta 2, so its availability and behavior could change before the software reaches its final release.
Apple has not announced a specific release date for iOS 27.2. The update is expected to arrive later this year.
(via IThome)
