This doesn’t automatically dial the emergency services by default, but it brings up the option to and also temporarily disables Touch ID until you enter a passcode. Twitter users discovered the new option in the iOS 11 public beta, and The Verge has verified it works as intended.
Previously, if you wanted to temporarily disable Touch ID you’d need to restart an iPhone, wait for a few days when the device automatically prompts for the passcode, awkwardly use a different finger a few times to force it to lock out, or just disable Touch ID in settings. Apple’s new method is a far more discreet way of locking out a phone, especially if you’re in a situation where you’re worried someone might force you to unlock your phone.
The new iOS 11 feature is even more relevant when you consider that Apple is expected to introduce face unlocking with the next iPhone. The ability to quickly disable Touch ID or face unlock features with iOS 11 could be even more useful in a scenario where you might not need to be physically forced to unlock a phone.
