Apple’s Crossbody Strap Provides iPhone Convenience Amid Mixed User Feedback
Reviewing the Features and Practicality of Apple’s Latest iPhone Accessory
Apple introduced its first crossbody strap for iPhones alongside the iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and Air models in September, priced at $59. This accessory allows users to wear their device diagonally across the body like a small shoulder bag, aiming to keep the phone accessible during travel or daily activities. Early user experiences highlight its utility but also point to comfort and aesthetic issues.
Design and Material Highlights
The strap stands out from typical lanyards due to specific engineering choices. It is constructed from recycled PET yarns, a polyester derived from recycled plastics, providing added weight and durability compared to lighter fabrics.
- Embedded flexible magnets secure the overlapping strap sections, ensuring they align neatly even during length adjustments via stainless steel sliders.
- Adjustable length ranges from a minimum of 42.5 inches to a maximum of 81.9 inches, accommodating various body sizes.
- Available in ten colors: neon yellow, light blue, blue, purple, sienna, orange, tan, green, light gray, and black.
- The design offers a unisex appearance, differing from many competitors marketed toward specific genders or styled like jewelry.
User Experiences and Potential Drawbacks
Testing reveals the strap’s convenience for scenarios requiring frequent phone access, such as travel or professional use. However, it introduces some challenges based on body movement and removal.
- The strap may rub against the neck or shoulder during walking, especially if the dangling iPhone shifts with leg movement or if wearing off-the-shoulder clothing exposes more skin. Users might need to switch sides after extended wear to alleviate discomfort.
- Attaching the cords initially can be fiddly, particularly for those with larger fingers, though the intended use involves simply unsnapping the strap for removal.
- When detached, the phone retains hanging cords from the case, creating an aesthetic issue described as “silly-looking” by some reviewers.