Apple’s new Security Research Device Program provides security researchers with special iPhones to help them find vulnerabilities in iOS for Apple. Former Apple engineer David Shayer examines how Apple might be tweaking iPhone hardware to make this work.

In an effort to encourage more security researchers to look for security vulnerabilities in iOS, Apple will provide approved researchers with a Security Research Device, a custom iPhone with key security controls disabled. It’s a good way for Apple to engage more fully with the security community.