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iOS Idle Reboots

  • May 28, 2025
  • 2 replies
  • 245 views
BGSICTSupport
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Hi,

Since 18.4 on iPads at least they now automatically reboot after 3 days of being idle. This is annoying as it drops them from the Wi-Fi preventing them receiving any MDM commands until they are unlocked.

Typically, in the holidays we clear the passcodes on our iPads that are kept in school and schedule the update to the latest iPadOS version however as they've been idle over the bank holiday weekend, they are now all disconnected and unable to receive commands.

According to Apples MDM Commands page there is a 'Allow Idle Reboot' command, but I can't find any documentation about it at all. ChatGPT came up with a .mobileconfig file but I've no idea where it pulled it from as there's only one result on Google for "Allow Idle Reboot" and it's the above webpage! I've deployed the .mobileconfig file to a test iPad (it shows up as 'unknown payload' but I've got to leave it 3 days before I know if it worked so I was curious if anyone else has had these issues?

Thanks

    Shyamsundar
    P

    2 replies

    P
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    • printertales
    • New Contributor
    • May 28, 2025

    The "Allow Idle Reboot" command, introduced in iOS 18.4 and iPadOS 18.4, is designed to enable devices to automatically reboot after being idle for a specified period. This feature is particularly useful in scenarios where devices are left unused for extended periods, such as during school holidays, to ensure they remain secure and receive necessary updates.

    However, as you've observed, this feature can cause issues in environments where devices are managed remotely via Mobile Device Management (MDM) systems. The automatic reboot can disconnect devices from Wi-Fi, preventing them from receiving MDM commands until they are manually unlocked.

    According to Apple's official documentation, the "Allow Idle Reboot" command is off by default on supervised devices. It's important to note that this command is available only on supervised devices running iOS 18.4 or later. If your devices are supervised and running the appropriate iOS version, you can enable this command through your MDM solution.Apple Support

    Regarding the .mobileconfig file you mentioned, it's possible that it was generated by an MDM solution or a third-party tool. The "unknown payload" status suggests that the configuration profile may not be fully recognized by the device, possibly due to compatibility issues or the need for specific MDM support.

    As of now, there isn't a documented method to disable the idle reboot feature entirely. Some users have suggested that the feature is intended to enhance security, but it can be problematic in managed environments .Reddit

    In summary, while the "Allow Idle Reboot" command is a useful feature for ensuring device security during periods of inactivity, it can present challenges in MDM-managed environments. Careful consideration and testing are recommended before deploying this feature to ensure it aligns with your organization's device management policies and operational needs.

    BGSICTSupport
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    • BGSICTSupport
    • Author
    • Contributor
    • May 28, 2025

    My devices are all supervised. I've noticed that devices that have enrolled into Jamf since 18.4 don't seem to reboot.

    For example, I have a test iPad on my desk I was using for testing Jamf Teacher that was enrolled last week and that has not rebooted. Meanwhile my work iPad that I enrolled years ago does seem to have rebooted.

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