Why is Apple handing out ‘hackable’ iPhones?

Apple’s iPhones are notoriously some of the most difficult smartphones to get into. While this is good protection against bad actors, it also has a negative effect on legitimate researchers who want to help Apple prevent weaknesses in its software.

That’s why Apple is giving these researchers “hackable” iPhones. These devices have had their outer-level security removed so that hackers can get into the internal software, or the underbelly of what makes the phone go. From there, they can find potential vulnerabilities deep within the system that Apple could be unaware of, and let the company know so it can be fixed.

These devices aren’t new; Apple has used them internally for years. This just marks the first time that those outside of Apple will get the chance to take a crack at them.