Why You Can Trust CNET The best accessories for your new iPhone: 7 ways to make your phone even better
From a gadget that turns your iPhone into a handheld gaming console to a gizmo that ensures you'll never lose anything ever again, here are some choice add-ons.
Whether it's your first iPhone or your seventh, if you unwrapped a new Apple handset this holiday season, you're probably pretty excited. And it doesn't really matter if you got the new iPhone 12 or an older model -- there haven't been that many substantive updates to Apple's gadget in the last few generations, so an iPhone 11 can be just as thrilling if you're stepping up from, say, an aging iPhone 8.
But how's your new phone dressed? Does it have a case? Do you have a modern charger to top off the phone wirelessly? Have you invested in a grip so you don't accidentally drop it? There are all sorts of great accessories for the iPhone, and though you probably don't need everything, there are likely a few items here that'll improve your iPhone experience.
As a general rule, I avoid going anywhere without a backup power source for my phone, and this 6,000-mAh Powerstation Plus is custom made for the iPhone, with both a Micro USB and Lightning cable built in -- so you can charge it up without bringing a spare Lightning cable with you.
I'm a big fan of Totallee's ultrathin cases that help your iPhone 11, iPhone 12 or iPhone SE keep its looks while offering some drop protection and a grippier surface to hold onto.
The PS5 and Xbox One X might be completely out of stock, but you can turn virtually any iPhone into a mobile gaming console with Backbone One. The spring-loaded controller perfectly fits any phone and has a familiar D-pad/joystick configuration. Plus, it automatically works with the entire Apple Arcade library.
The iPhone 12's signature feature is MagSafe, so why not get a MagSafe wallet attachment that lets you carry a few credit cards around with your phone?
Nothing good can come from dropping your phone, and PopSocket is a cool grip that attaches to the back of your phone or case, lies flat and then pops out to slip between your fingers when you need it. Price varies depending which model you choose, including one with your very own artwork for $15.
Attach a Tile tracker to anything you lose a lot: keys, remote control, wallet, you name it. Then use your iPhone to find it. It's that simple. If you're new to Tile, this Starter Pack (which contains a Tile Mate and a Tile Slim) is a good start, but there are a variety of combo packs available that range from $50-$80.
This Qi wireless charging pad can accommodate your iPhone, AirPods and Apple Watch all at the same time. And though $96 isn't cheap, the pad is currently $44 off the usual price of $140.
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