What is the better solution that retains the anti-theft capabilities of the device? The value of stolen (activation-locked) iPhones and Macs is largely only on in overseas markets where they can strip the device down to usable parts - or, if you're lucky, you'll get threatening text messages telling you to remove the device from your icloud[0, 1] so they can sell it as a fully working phone.
The inability for a thief to just flash the device with fresh firmware and use it as if it were new is a key selling point of the device and might justify the higher price tag to some buyers.
The inability for a thief to just flash the device with fresh firmware and use it as if it were new is a key selling point of the device and might justify the higher price tag to some buyers.
0: https://old.reddit.com/r/applehelp/comments/13yn1o0/phone_st...
1: https://old.reddit.com/r/applehelp/comments/16fcd4c/recently...