In the years since Apple first released MagSafe, a bunch of people have realized that magnets are an excellent way of attaching accessories to phones. Whether it's stands, grips, battery packs or something else entirely — all using that same magnetic ring design. Now, though, Apple may be offering a new accessory that does things a little differently with iPhone 17 — but maintains the magnetic connection.
According to leaker MajinBu, who has been on something of an iPhone 17 accessory streak recently, Apple is set to release something called the "Crossbody Strap." Apparently this is some kind of strap or lanyard type tool that offers an "innovative magnetic design."
Magnetic attraction
By this, Bu means that the strap actually has a flexible metal core that offers a magnetic connection across its entire length. Judging from the images shared, this looks like the strap will have a lanyard design, but with the ability to close the loop and offer different ways to securely strap it to your person — such as around your wrist.
The strap also features two rings with the opposite polarization to the rest of the strap, which are said to offer "enhanced strength" and "a robust hold." Bu claims that this will integrate with iPhone 17 cases, suggesting the strap may not connect to the phone directly. So this may be one more reason to invest in a case for your iPhone 17.
The leaker believes that multiple different colors, styles and materials will be available. That should include silicone and a nylon similar to Apple Watch Sport Loop Bands, which would allow users to pick a strap that matches the other accessories in their collection.
Not just for iPhone
Oh, and it's possible that the Crossbody Strap will also be compatible with AirPods Pro 3, whenever they're actually released.
So while this isn't a MagSafe-friendly accessory from the sound of things, it's using that same principle that magnets can make phone accessories more versatile and a lot less awkward. Anyone that's seen wrist bands and lanyards for phones will likely know how strange some of them can be when they connect to your phone. So something a little stronger, more robust and generally less fiddly can only be a good thing.
Of course we'll actually have to wait and see how things pan out once the iPhone 17 is released. After all we had some high hopes for the FineWoven cases, and those proved to be so bad that Apple had to pull them from sale after a year — and rumor has it they had to design a more durable alternative that's due this year.
Thankfully we don't have that long to wait. The iPhone 17 launch event is now confirmed for September 9, which is less than two weeks away. In the meantime be sure to check out our iPhone 17 hubs for all the latest news and rumors about the phone.
More from Tom's Guide
- Here Are the Rumored iPhone 17 Colors for Each Model — Vote for Your Favorite
- 7 Rumored iPhone 17 Upgrades You Need to Know About
- Apple Rumored to Increase Prices for iPhone 17 — Here’s How Much They Might Cost
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