I agree with you that a more secure device could have been created.  However, Apple did not write this poll, and that&#x27;s what I&#x27;m focused on in the above comment.<p>&gt; So what prevents the FBI from asking Apple to have a team visit the Apple offices, get access to all code that runs on the iPhone and the docs and signing keys?<p>I believe the DOJ would like to set a precedent here of having Apple weaken its own security.  If the US wins this case and Apple is compelled to write special software, then Apple may be expected to provide a back door to any other of its present or future devices.  That is much more powerful than having the FBI grab source code and hack the system themselves.  They&#x27;ll simply expect Apple to do it for them.