Apple considers bricking stolen iPhones remotely to fight shoplifting

Apple has thought of a new wireless security system, one that would disable any stolen iPhones, iPads or Macs and make shoplifting them from Apple stores a low reward activity.
The patent outlines a method that would effectively brick any Apple devices when removed from the store.

Here’s how the patent works (in extremely dumbed down summary): Once an Apple device has been removed from the boundary of the security area (aka the store), the security system will alert any administrator nearby such as a store employee. After a period of time, the device will no longer be able to access Apple services like activation. It will disable hardware buttons and touch input, and constantly attempt to broadcast its location. A message will also be displayed on the lock-screen, prompting possessors of the device to return it to the nearest store.
Apple stores make use of an open plan layout that has lent itself to robbery, this method, if implemented, would make it unfeasible for would-be thieves to simply nick Apple display units

Source: Patently Apple, via TechRadar