Apple’s new iPhone crossbody strap debuted alongside the iPhone 17 lineup in September, offering a hands-free way to carry your phone similar to a small purse. Priced at $59, the accessory has sparked debate since its release, with some praising its practicality and others criticizing its appearance when not in use.
After testing the strap myself, I found it offers both advantages and drawbacks worth considering.
Convenience for Hands-Free Use
The strap’s primary appeal lies in its convenience. It’s undoubtedly useful for travel, navigating busy streets, or professions where frequent phone access is crucial. Apple provides ample length (ranging from 42.5 to 81.9 inches), accommodating a variety of body types. This thoughtful design contrasts with some crossbody bags that cater primarily to one size.
Beyond basic functionality, the strap boasts unique touches. Constructed from recycled PET yarns, it feels substantial and well-made compared to flimsy fabric alternatives. Embedded magnets keep the overlapping straps neatly aligned when adjusted, eliminating annoying tangles common in traditional lanyards.
The strap also sports a relatively unisex aesthetic, unlike many purse-like options that lean towards feminine styles.
Discomfort and the “Dangling Cords” Dilemma
While convenient, the strap isn’t without its downsides. Constant movement can cause rubbing against your shoulder or neck, particularly noticeable if you wear off-the-shoulder clothing or have a smaller frame. This discomfort could necessitate switching the strap to the opposite side periodically for relief.
However, the most significant drawback is arguably the phone’s appearance when detached. The two looped cords that connect to compatible phone cases create an unflattering look once removed. You are left with dangling strings protruding from the bottom of your iPhone — hardly a chic ensemble complement.
Comparing Apple’s Strap to Alternatives
It’s worth noting that numerous cheaper straps and lanyards exist on platforms like Amazon or from brands like Casetify and PopSockets. These often employ an insertable card within your phone case, resulting in a single metal loop for attachment. While budget-friendly, these options can prove unreliable over time, with the metal loops being the most common point of failure. The Apple strap’s distributed weight and lack of a singular weak point offer a more durable alternative.
Alternatives like Bandolier cases provide a more fashionable solution when detached but come at a higher price tag (around $100-$150 for both case and strap).
Verdict: Convenience Comes with Compromises
Ultimately, Apple’s iPhone crossbody strap presents a compelling proposition for hands-free convenience. Its robust construction, thoughtful design, and magnetic closure are notable strengths. However, the persistent rubbing discomfort and awkward “dangling cords” aesthetic when detached may deter style-conscious users or those who frequently remove the strap. The $59 price point positions it competitively compared to premium alternatives but doesn’t necessarily solve all the drawbacks of phone straps in general.
