Unless you’ve been off-grid for the last couple of weeks, you likely are aware of Apple’s latest iPhone 17 lineup, which was announced earlier this week during the company’s big September event. With the iPhone available for preorder today and shipping Sept. 19, you’ve got a few days on your hands to peruse iPhone 17 cases and accessories.
When it comes to accessories, phone lanyards seem to be everywhere all at once. And for good reason. Not only do these keep your phone right where you want it without having to rifle around in a bag or bulk up your pockets, but they can also be very handy for travel and events when your tickets are electronic or when you just want to keep snapping photos without having to set your coffee down every time.
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Apple has a large selection of crossbody straps and compatible cases, but those aren’t the only options out there. Whether you’re in the market for something more rugged, or more affordable, or maybe you just want something for your wrist, we’ve curated a list for you of the best phone straps out there.
This lanyard from Satechi isn’t just for carrying your phone. It has a built-in charging cable so you never have to go digging for a phone or cable again. The cable includes an aluminum cap to protect the ends when not in use. The cord is 4.9 feet long, so it’s perfect for wearing crossbody. And at 60 watts, it will work with Apple’s new faster wired charging.
If you shop through the Amazon link, you’ll find discount codes for up to 20% off if you buy more than one qualified item. These qualifying items include wireless chargers and more.
If a full-on crossbody feels like too much, this chic, sleek wrist option from Native Union just might do the trick. It’s compatible with most phone cases and comes in several lush colors including a mustard yellow and a slate green.
If you’re willing to enter your email on the Native Union site, new customers will be sent a coupon code for 15% their first purchase.
If you’re a minimalist at heart, the Elago crossbody phone lanyard is perfect for you. The simple nylon strap comes in either stone or black, and it attaches to any phone or case using a magnetic lock. It’s simple to attach, but it must be unlocked in a specific way, which keeps it in place for as long as you need it.
Though there are no direct discounts at the moment, new customers can enter their email to get a 10% off coupon for their first purchase.
Casetify has a reputation for making solid phone cases, and they recently debuted their iPhone 17 lineup. This simple crossbody rope attaches to most cases and makes your phone hands-free. There are several designs to choose from at Best Buy.
Although there are no direct discounts on the crossbody rope itself, if you purchase through Best Buy you will get three free months of Apple Fitness, Apple Arcade and Apple Music, plus two months of Apple TV.
The Case Mate crossbody strap comes in a light, neutral taupe color and has a woven pattern that classes it up over the simple nylon rope style. The hardware has a shiny gold finish.
As with the Casetify rope, if you purchase this strap through Best Buy, you’ll get three free months of Apple Fitness, Apple Arcade and Apple Music, plus two months of Apple TV.
This nifty little device acts as a kickstand for hands-free viewing of your iPhone 17 and also features a removable wrist strap. Scoop up your phone, slip your hand into the strap and away you go, your phone always at the ready. Amazon has a handful of color combos, including pink on pink, beige and neon yellow, and blue.
If you like the options of having a crossbody and a wrist strap, the super-strong OtterBox 2-in-1 strap will be right up your alley. Wear it around your neck or as a crossbody or remove one of the sections to quickly convert it to a wrist strap. The strap itself has loops where you can hang keys and is easy to attach to any OtterBox case via anchors.
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How do I preorder my iPhone 17?
iPhones are available for preorder at a handful of outlets as of Sept. 12. However, Sept. 19 is the day when the iPhone will be on store shelves and preorders will begin shipping. You can shop for offers here.
First, decide which model iPhone you want to buy: iPhone Air, iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro or iPhone 17 Pro Max. Then, select your preferred color and storage capacity. You also need to decide if you’ll trade in an older iPhone, which could get you up to $700 back from Apple.
Once you make those decisions, you’ll need to choose an optional carrier and AppleCare Plus coverage (or forgo it) and click the blue Add to Bag button. You can then include any accessories you want and enter your payment information to complete your purchase. If you’ve purchased an unlocked model you’ll have to decide on a carrier plan.
How do iPhone trade-in offers work?
Many carriers are offering trade-in savings, some valued at up to $1,100 on eligible trade-ins, which could net you a free iPhone 17 Pro. However, be aware that most trade-in deals from carriers require you to become a customer, and the terms often require you to choose some of the priciest plan options.
Not a fan of contracts? Some retailers also offer trade-in programs, which could offer gift cards toward future purchases instead. This can be a great way to take advantage of savings without necessarily being locked into a contract. Retail offers may not provide as much of a deal as traditional trade-in offers from carriers, though, so keep that in mind as you shop.
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