Google has officially unveiled a new Rope Wristlet for its Pixel phones, a small but curious accessory that immediately drew comparisons to Apple’s recent Crossbody Strap introduced alongside the iPhone 17. The concept is simple: a polyester cord with a carabiner on one end that clips to a slim D-ring plate. This plate is designed to sit discreetly between the phone and its protective case, giving users a secure way to carry their device from the wrist. While marketed primarily as a Pixel add-on, Google acknowledges that the wristlet can work with nearly any smartphone, though the Pixel Fold series is excluded from compatibility.
The Rope Wristlet allows owners to loop the strap around their wrist so the phone can dangle safely without slipping. 
It even bears the Google logo, though the branding and material give it a more casual feel compared to Apple’s premium-looking Crossbody Strap. Instead of aiming for a fashion accessory, Google seems to be leaning into practical utility. Many longtime phone users will remember when wrist straps were a common feature, especially during the era of compact Nokias and early smartphones. Over the years, most modern cases and phones dropped the two-hole strap attachment design, leaving enthusiasts to improvise.
Google’s return to this idea feels like a revival of that old convenience, packaged in a colorful modern take. The Rope Wristlet comes in three playful dual-tone designs: Purple/Blue, Black/Grey, and Green/Yellow. At just $7 in the United States, it’s far from a luxury purchase and clearly priced to encourage impulse buying. Some see it as a cheap gimmick, while others welcome the practicality, especially those who dislike bulky phone grips or constantly fear accidental drops. Compared to Apple’s high-priced accessory, Google’s approach feels refreshingly modest.
Interestingly, users online have already started reminiscing about their DIY solutions. One nostalgic commenter mentioned never giving up on wrist straps since the Nokia era and even resorting to heating a needle to poke strap holes in their phone case. That kind of passion suggests there’s still a niche audience for this throwback accessory. Whether it becomes a mainstream trend or just a quirky side option remains to be seen, but it’s clear Google is experimenting with small, affordable add-ons that make everyday phone use a little safer and a bit more fun.