With the iPhone 17, Apple could break new ground not only with the smartphone itself, but also with accessories. According to reports from leaker Majin Bu, the company is working on cases made from a newly developed fabric called TechWoven and a magnetic shoulder strap made from Apple Watch nylon. The products are to be presented at the September event on September 9 – at the same time as the iPhone 17.
- TechWoven replaces FineWoven with a denser, more durable fabric
- Cases with two eyelets for carrying straps and metal buttons
- Magnetic Apple Watch nylon strap with flexible metal strip
- Presentation expected on September 9th together with the iPhone 17
New fabric for more durability
The TechWoven cases are set to take over from the controversial FineWoven cases, which were introduced with the iPhone 15 but were criticized for wearing out quickly. According to reports, the new material is a densely woven, textured fabric that is supposed to be significantly more robust and offer a better grip in the hand. Apple continues to focus on the use of recycled and environmentally friendly materials in order to support its own climate targets by 2030.
Visually, the cases remain closely aligned with the previous design language: Metal buttons, precise cut-outs for the USB-C port as well as the new camera button of the iPhone 17 are all part of it. For the first time, there are two holes at the bottom for shoulder straps or other accessories – an indication that Apple is focusing more on the issue of carrying comfort. The TechWoven cases will be available in black, blue, green, purple and sienna (orange) for all iPhone 17 models.
Even though the material is intended to be more durable, analysts assume that it will develop visible wear and tear over time, similar to leather. Instead of a classic patina, however, changes could occur in the surface that influence the character of the cases.
Magnetic shoulder strap for more flexibility
Particularly exciting is the supposedly planned magnetic shoulder strap, which according to Apple could appear alongside the TechWoven cases. Made from the familiar nylon fabric of the Apple Watch wristbands, it is held together by an integrated metal strip with oppositely polarized magnets. This design allows the strap to be attached easily and detached just as quickly – without traditional hooks or clips.
Apple is thus following a growing trend in smartphone accessories: crossbody straps have become increasingly popular in recent years, as they make cell phones more easily accessible in everyday life or on the go. With the magnetic solution, Apple could further increase convenience and enable seamless integration with the new cases.
Although the concept is said to already be in production, it remains to be seen whether Apple will offer the straps as a separate accessory or as a bundle with the cases. However, given the current pricing of Apple accessories, it can be assumed that both products will be sold separately.
Conclusion
With the new TechWoven cases and the magnetic strap, Apple could put the criticism of the FineWoven cases behind it and at the same time create a practical accessory for everyday use. The choice of material combines durability with sustainability, while the shoulder strap should offer real added value for mobile users. The launch is expected to take place on September 9, 2025 – together with the iPhone 17. Prices have not yet been announced, but the positioning is likely to be in the premium segment as usual.
