Apple is once again preparing to expand its iPhone accessory lineup, and leaks suggest that not everyone will be thrilled with what’s coming. 
While the iPhone 17 series will take center stage during Apple’s keynote tomorrow, the company is also expected to unveil fresh accessories – including a brand-new strap system that has already stirred debate among fans and critics alike.
Thanks to reliable leaker Sonny Dickinson, two photos of Apple’s mysterious strap have surfaced online, sparking speculation about what exactly the tech giant is planning. The images reveal a long strap with textile loops at both ends, which differs noticeably from the previously rumored magnetic Crossbody Strap. The textile loops suggest this may be a separate product altogether, or possibly one variation in a broader lineup of Apple’s new straps.
Earlier reports hinted at Apple developing a clever system involving magnets and precision-cut holes that would integrate seamlessly with custom iPhone 17 cases. The new photos don’t rule out magnets, but they clearly show the strap’s reliance on loops – perhaps as a cost-friendly attachment option. Some insiders speculate that Apple could introduce two versions: a basic textile-loop model for wider compatibility and a premium magnet-based Crossbody Strap that might be spotlighted during the keynote. For now, however, these are educated guesses, and the final reveal will clarify what direction Apple has chosen.
This leak also raises questions about Apple’s overall accessory strategy. Competitors like Peak Design have already built thriving ecosystems around their cases, offering clever modular systems with anchors, mounts, and straps that appeal to users who demand versatility. Samsung, too, has impressed with its accessories, such as the Standing Grip Case for the Galaxy S25 Ultra, which doubles as both protection and functionality. Apple, despite its dominance in smartphones, has often lagged behind when it comes to imaginative first-party accessories.
Apple’s track record hasn’t always inspired confidence either. The FineWoven case line, introduced as a sustainable alternative to leather, was widely criticized for poor durability and disappointing quality. For many users, this remains a cautionary tale: before Apple asks customers to adopt its latest strap system, it must prove it has learned from past mistakes and deliver something that combines durability, style, and genuine convenience. If not, consumers may simply continue relying on third-party brands that already offer cheaper and more reliable solutions.
From a practical standpoint, a crossbody strap or lanyard can actually be useful for those who want quick access to their phone while commuting, hiking, or traveling. Yet it also divides opinion – some users dislike the idea of carrying a smartphone like a fashion accessory. Apple’s challenge will be to strike the right balance between functionality and design, ensuring the strap feels like a natural extension of the iPhone ecosystem rather than a gimmick.
As with every Apple launch, the details will matter. Will there be multiple colors, adjustable sizes, or premium finishes? Will the strap work only with official cases, or will Apple leave the door open for broader compatibility? These questions remain unanswered, but tomorrow’s keynote should clear the air. One thing is certain: accessories are becoming increasingly important in Apple’s ecosystem, and this new strap may signal that Cupertino finally wants to compete head-on in a category where rivals have already raised the bar.
Until then, all eyes remain on the leaks – and whether Apple’s strap will become a must-have addition to the iPhone 17 lineup or another accessory experiment that fails to win over its audience.