Updated

Updated · MacStories · Sep 9

Apple Unveils $129 iPhone Duo Folio and $549 Hermès Bands at 2026 September Event

Updated

Updated · MacStories · Sep 9

Apple Unveils $129 iPhone Duo Folio and $549 Hermès Bands at 2026 September Event

Q: Why did Apple quietly change its iconic MagSafe design for the new iPhone 18 Pro accessories?

Apple appears to have changed the visible MagSafe graphic mainly to better reflect how the system actually works and to align the clear case with today’s magnetic accessory ecosystem, not because it announced a new MagSafe technology. The evidence in Apple’s own product pages points that way. MagSafe on iPhone is built around a circular ring of magnets that aligns chargers and accessories such as wallets, stands, battery packs, and car mounts. The new clear case now shows that circular alignment ring directly, replacing the square outline used on the previous model. That makes the design more literal and easier for customers to recognize, especially as Apple expands magnetic add-ons like the new wrist strap, crossbody strap, and FineWoven wallet. The shift also fits broader industry language around MagSafe and Qi2. Accessory makers and Apple alike now emphasize circular magnetic alignment as the key functional element. A square outline was more of a stylistic framing device; the ring is the actual working geometry. On clear cases, where the magnet layout is visible, showing the ring likely reduces confusion about compatibility and charging alignment. What Apple has not done is publicly explain the redesign or tie it to a hardware change in the iPhone 18 Pro itself. Based on the available information, this looks like a quiet visual simplification and branding update—one that highlights the circular magnet ring customers actually use for charging and magnetic accessories.

3 articles · Updated · MacStories · Sep 9

$129 iPhone Duo Folio with Kickstand led Apple’s accessory additions, joining a $79 Duo case in Sand, Taupe and Navy Blue options for the upcoming foldable-style model.
iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max also got refreshed protection: silicone, clear and TechWoven MagSafe cases priced at $49 to $59, plus new wrist straps from $29, crossbody straps at $59 and a FineWoven wallet at $59.
Apple Watch bands expanded across Apple, Nike, Ultra and Hermès lines, with most standard bands at $49, Ultra bands at $99 and Hermès models topping the range at $549.
The accessory rollout accompanied Apple’s broader September 2026 hardware event and extends an earlier launch of iPhone 18 Pro and AirPods Pro 3 add-ons.